18 Job Interview Tips for Teens they Need to Know

Inside: Learn the job interview tips for teens which teach your child how to stand out among the candidates and get hired. Get a list of 50 interview questions to practice with.

Do you have a teenager ready to go out into the workforce? Does they communicate easily,  know their strengths and weaknesses, and can they look up from thier phone to make eye contact for more than a few seconds? 

You might think the last one is crazy, but it’s a huge problem with the millennial generation right now.  Employers are having a terrible time finding employees who have basic skills such as carrying on a conversation and making eye contact with people. It’s sad but true!

Is your teen ready for a job interview? If you’re not sure, don’t worry! I have some job interview tips for teens that can teach him how to stand out from among the other candidates and get hired.

Education With a Difference

Looking for an accredited online high school for your teen?

True North Academy offers live, dynamic classes taught by world-class teachers in small class sizes — fully Cognia-accredited, with transcripts and advising to help your student arrive prepared for the future.

My Best Job Interview Tips for Teens

  1. Practice Interview Questions
  2. Research the Company
  3. Put Together a List of References
  4. Dress Appropriately
  5. Arrive Early
  6. The First Five Minutes Are the Most Important
  7. Act Professional
  8. Use Good Body Language
  9. Use the STAR Method
  10. Have Questions Prepared for the Interviewer
  11. Keep Answers Short
  12. Stay Away from the Phone
  13. Find a Negative That’s a Positive
  14. Know Your Schedule
  15. Ask What’s Next
  16. Send a Thank You Note
  17. Follow Up Email/Call
  18. Learn from Your Mistakes

How Do You Prepare Your Homeschooler for a Job Interview?

Preparing your teen for his first job interview isn’t hard. Having conversations with him and discussing what he should say and do is a great place to begin. I have put together 18 tips so you can cover the most important areas for a successful interview. I separated them into three categories for before, during, and after the interview.

Tips for Before the Interview

Practice Interview Questions

You never know what questions people will ask. It’s a good idea to practice as many of them as possible. Find a friend or family member to rehearse with your child. I have a big list of first job interview questions your teen can practice answering. Be sure to sign up for it at the bottom of this article.

Research the Company

Have your teen spend some time learning about the company he is interviewing with. Start with their website and then their social media channels. If they ask him what he knows about their company, it will impress them he took the time to find out. This will show he is interested and knowledgeable, but also help him see if the job is a good fit.

Put Together a List of References

If the interviewer is interested, he may ask for references. Having a list already prepared can speed up the process.

Dress Appropriately

What should a teenager wear to a job interview? Wearing jeans and tennis shoes might be great for everyday apparel, but not for an interview. While they don’t have to wear a suit or dress, it is nice for the guys to wear khaki pants and a collared shirt and girls in a skirt or dress pants and a nice shirt. Half the battle in making a positive impression in the first few minutes is how your teen looks.

Arrive Early

It is always a good idea to arrive at the interview at least 10 minutes early. This shows them your teen is punctual. It also allows him time to find the room they are interviewing in and get himself together before being called. It may be a good idea to drive by the building the day before so he knows where it’s at and doesn’t get lost.  Arriving late will set a bad tone and also cause your teen to be more nervous.

Tips for During the Interview

The First Five Minutes Are the Most Important

Remind your child he has five minutes to win these people over. They often make the decision to hire someone during those first few minutes. It starts with how he looks when he walks through the door. The next step is wowing them with some energy and saying something positive he’s heard about the company. He should remember to smile and interact with everyone.

Act Professional

Giving a firm handshake, making eye contact, and stating your name is not something many teens do today. These simple acts will make your teen stand out and look professional. If your child has had a job before, make sure he doesn’t talk negatively about his previous employer.

Use Good Body Language

Our body language says a lot. Tell your child not to slouch in the chair. He should sit up, act interested, and establish good eye contact.  The SLANT strategy would be perfect for this.

Use the STAR Method When Asked Questions About Past Situations

Behavioral interviews are the new thing. Employers ask questions about situations your teen may have been a part of in the past and how he handled them. To answer these, the STAR method can help.

Situation- Describe the situation and include the setting. It helps the interviewer to understand where and when it took place. An example would be. “When I was the captain of my community basketball team in high school, we were trying to make it to the championships.”

Task- This step explains what his duty was. “It was my job to motivate my team members and make sure everyone was working together.”

Action- This step describes the action he took. “I had team meetings before each game and talked about how far we had come and told them we needed to work even harder and not give up. I pointed out positive ways each of them had helped us get that far.”

Result- What resulted from the action? “We played harder than we ever had and won the game to advance to the championship!”

Career Exploration

Career Exploration focuses on vocational and career exploration. Students will understand their strengths, challenges and more as they prepare to launch as adults in a complex, digital, and fast-changing world as wellwill identify the intersection of passions, interests, and the necessity of work. Students will explore the difference between work and career and how both fit into their personal pathway.

Career Exploration for high school students | online class

Have Questions Prepared for the Interviewer

The interviewer isn’t the only one who can ask questions. In fact, your teen should prepare a list and be ready to ask them. This lets him get involved in the process and also get some answers to the questions he may have. 

Some examples might be:

  1. What would my responsibilities be?
  2. Do I work with other departments and how does that work?
  3. What does a typical day in this job look like?
  4. Is there an opportunity to advance?
  5. What do people like the most and least about this job?

Keep Answers Short

When answering questions, there’s a fine line between talking too much and not enough. Tell your teen not to give one-word answers, but at the same time, don’t go on and on. Try to answer the questions with the information they are looking for and not add to it with unnecessary rambling.

Stay Away from the Phone

Today’s teens are constantly on their phones. This can be a problem in the workplace. If the interviewer sees your teen glancing at his phone, he’s going to assume he will play with his phone during work hours as well. It’s best to keep it in his pocket or leave it in the car during the interview.

Find a Negative That’s a Positive

Almost every interviewer will ask what a person’s strengths and weaknesses are. Finding something negative that is still a positive can be tricky. The weakness should be something that is truly a negative, but there are ways to correct it. If your teen has difficulty managing time, he can say he uses a planner or sets reminders on his phone to make sure he meets deadlines and doesn’t miss appointments.

Know Your Schedule

Most likely they will discuss the hours your teen is available for work. Make sure your child knows his schedule and is flexible. Also, if he is not driving yet, he should explain how he will get to and from work.

Tips for After the Interview

Ask What’s Next

It’s perfectly fine at the end of the interview for your teenager to ask what to expect. It shows he’s interested in getting the job. This will let him know whether to expect a phone call or email and if there is another step involved before getting hired. He may find out when they intend to fill the position and if they still have other people to interview.

Send a Thank You Note

It might seem strange to your teen, but writing a thank you note is a personal touch that will set him apart. If he asks for a business card from the interviewer before he leaves, he will have an email address to send his thank you to. Do this the same day if possible, but at least within 48 hours.

He should thank the person for his time and considering him for the position.  It’s a good idea to include something from the interview such as, “I am interested in…” or “I am excited about the possibility of…”  Finish by letting the person know he looks forward to hearing from him soon. Not only is sending a thank you note polite, but it also puts your child’s name in front of this person again.

Follow Up Email/Call

If a week has gone by and your child hasn’t heard from the company, it’s acceptable to call or email and find out if they have filled the position. He can write out a script if he’s nervous about making a phone call. Let the person know he’s still interested in the job and was calling to find out if they have hired anyone yet.

Learn from Your Mistakes

Have your teenager think about what went right and wrong after he’s done with the interview. Have him tell what he could change next time. Tell him it’s okay if he made a mistake or didn’t answer something correctly. The best way to practice for interviews is to do more interviews. The more he does the easier they will get. Explain even adults are nervous for them.

Resources

Here are two helpful books to prepare you even more for interviews:

Conclusion

Getting a job can actually be a job! Practicing how to get a job, and how to interview are important life skills that will take your teen far beyond their first employed position! 

Download a complete list of teenage job interview questions here.

Two Classes that will increase your students interview, communication and life skills:

Life SKills 101 online class for homeschool teens

Life Skills

Life Skills is a full-year, online, live class. Teens primed and ready for the next phase of life- meets weekly. The 8+ sections of this one-year course are centered on three broad topics: Making the most of your life, transitions, and preparing for your first job. Student practice the interview process and gain confidence and real world experience!

10 Things Your kids Need to Know about their Car

Your teen will be driving without you soon, whether you’re ready for it or not. And teaching your kids about the car is just as much a matter of safety as stewardship. Learning how to take care of a car is one more big step towards independence and launching with confidence! It’s a necessary life skill! And since summertime is traditionally when many of us are heading out for adventure, it’s a great time for your kids to learn about the car and then plan a Road Trip! 

10 Things Teens Need to Know about Thier Car

10 Things Your Teen Needs to Know about Their Car:

  1. How to inspect and register a car. Every state will have different requirements, but all of them will require paperwork and licensures! Here’s a handy guide to get started. 
  2. Know your car basics 
    1. Spare tire
    2. Jumper cables
    3. Manual
    4. Fuses
    5. Basic Fluids like oil, windshield fluid
  3. Know where the oil gauge is, how to add oil. Bonus points for being able to change the oil. 
  4. Tires. An often overlooked safety feature on cars is the tires. Teach your kids how to check the tie pressure, spot balding and what questions to ask when purchasing tires. 
  5. How to use a set of Jumper Cables and where they are kept in the car. 
  6. Emergency stops. How to handle a tire blow out or other mechanical failure
  7. How to handle a fender bender or other collision
  8. How to replace and check windshield wipers and fluid. How to repair a windshield crack before it gets out of hand. 
  9. What to do if any dashboard lights come on
  10. How to drive safely includes
    1. Wearing Seatbelts
    2. No texting
    3. Checking mirrors and using turn signals
    4. Keeping an eye out for motorcycles, bicyclists and pedestrians
    5. Driving defensively and with alertness
    6. Knowing where they are going and how to get there
    7. Use the 3-4 Second rule to keep a safe distance from other cars

PRO Tip: Teach your young driver to keep their car clean and fill the gas for the next person who will be using the car. 

Now that you Have the Basics Down, it’s Time to Head out on an Adventure! 

While your kids are learning how to drive, get them involved in your next road trip! If you kids know how to drive and can read a map, why not let them plan your next road trip! Give your teens a direction, time limit and a budget and let them come up with 

  • A route to the location
  • A list of places along the way
  • Final destination & recommendations on where to stay upon arrival
  • Gas stations along the way
  • Restaurants or Rest Stops if you are picnicking
  • Tourist stops.
  •  A written budget for the Trip
  • A packing list for the car and recommended packing items for family members.
  • Car Maintenance items
  • Have your teen check fluids and tires before you head out, including the spare tire!

The whole point of having a car is to go places, right? What better reward for learning to drive and understanding how to take care of the car, then heading out on an adventure together! After all, these teen years go by so fast, so creating memories together is so important!

Life SKills 101 online class for homeschool teens

Life Skills 101 » True North Academy

Life Skills 101 is a full-year, online, live class that will get your teens primed and ready for the next phase of life- meets weekly.

The 8+ sections of this one-year course are centered on three broad topics: Making the most of your life, transitions, and preparing for your first job. This is a practical, project based course that students love and parents appreciate!

The History and Meaning of the 4th of July

The History and Meaning of the 4th of July

The 4th of July, commonly known as Independence Day, is a significant and cherished holiday in the United States. It is a day of patriotism, celebration, and remembrance of the nation’s birth. It’s a fun and exciting day to celebrate freedom and family! 

The Road to Independence

The journey towards American independence began with the colonists’ discontent under British rule. In the late 18th century, tensions escalated, leading to events like the Boston Tea Party and the Continental Congress. These events set the stage for the eventual declaration of independence.

Education With a Difference

Looking for an accredited online high school for your teen?

True North Academy offers live, dynamic classes taught by world-class teachers in small class sizes — fully Cognia-accredited, with transcripts and advising to help your student arrive prepared for the future.

Some books that you might enjoy reading about these events: 

Upper Elementary

  • From Sea to Shining Sea, My America – A Poetry Atlas of the United States
  • The Fourth of July Story
  • If You Lived at the time of the American Revolution
  • Cornerstones of Freedom “The Story of the Declaration of Independence”

Junior High

  • George Vs George
  • The Signers (of the Declaration of Independence)
  • Johnny Tremain
  • George Washington’s Spy (could also be upper elementary)
  • Tollivera Secret (could also be upper elementary)
  • My Brother Sam is Dead
  • Black Heroes of the American Revolution

High School

  • George Washington’s World
  • The Story of the Constitution by Christian Liberty Press
  • Answering the Cry for Freedom
online World History class for high school

World History – Strategy: War & Peace

World History- Strategy: War & Peace will focus on the American founding. This course begins by considering George Washington’s advice on foreign policy in his Farewell Address. Why have we largely ignored that advice for more than a century? That question will take us back to the first principles of the strategy.

What is war, and why do nations fight? 

Enroll Today in this fascinating, full year class!

The Declaration of Independence

On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, a document drafted by Thomas Jefferson. The declaration proclaimed the thirteen American colonies as independent states, free from British rule. It laid the foundation for the birth of a new nation, founded on principles of liberty, equality, and unalienable rights.

Celebrations of Early Years

In the early years following the declaration, the 4th of July was celebrated with various festivities, including parades, speeches, and fireworks. The celebrations aimed to honor the newly gained freedom and express gratitude for the sacrifices made during the Revolutionary War. One of the hallmarks of a town’s Independence Day Celebration included reading the Declaration of Independence outload to the community as well as the names of the original signers. This is still such a great way to commemorate the 4th of July ! The little House on the Prairie Books have a sweet rendition of this communal reading of the Declaration of Independence in Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder 

Symbolism of the American Flag

The American flag, with its thirteen stripes representing the original colonies and fifty stars representing the states, is an enduring symbol of the nation’s independence. The flag’s design has evolved over time, reflecting the growth and expansion of the United States. It serves as a potent reminder of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped the country.

The Spirit of Freedom and Democracy

The 4th of July embodies the spirit of freedom and democracy. It celebrates the fundamental values that America holds dear: liberty, equality, and the pursuit of happiness. The holiday serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the founding fathers and countless others who fought for these principles.

Politics Philosophy and Economics online homeschool class

Politics, Philosophy & Economics

Politics, Philosophy & Economics course is designed as a 31.5 credit honors level course that will take the students through a challenging and exhilarating ride, gaining an understanding of government, economics, and philosophy. This course is designed to move students from passive bystanders to active, vibrant members of a citizenry.

ENROLL today in this full year, 3 credit Honors Class!

Family, Community, and Togetherness

Independence Day is also a time for families and communities to come together. Barbecues, picnics, parades and outdoor activities are common traditions during this holiday. It is a time to bond with loved ones, reflect on the nation’s history, and appreciate the privileges of living in a free society.

Fireworks: A Dazzling Display

One of the most anticipated aspects of the 4th of July celebrations is the fireworks display. The spectacular bursts of colors and lights in the night sky symbolize the joy and exuberance associated with the holiday. Fireworks have become synonymous with the 4th of July, captivating audiences across the nation.

National Pride and Reflection

Independence Day provides an opportunity for Americans to reflect on their nation’s progress, challenges, and shared values. It is a time to appreciate the diversity and resilience of the American people. From naturalization ceremonies welcoming new citizens to parades honoring veterans, the day fosters a sense of national fellowship and appreciation for this country that embodies the idea of freedom! 

The 4th of July holds immense significance in the American cultural landscape. It commemorates the country’s independence, honors the sacrifices of its founding fathers, and celebrates the core values of freedom, equality, and democracy. As we gather with family and friends, enjoying fireworks and festivities! Happy 4th of July!

Executive Functioning Skills

Strengthening Executive Functioning

Executive functioning skills regulate, control, and manage one’s thoughts and actions. To put it succinctly, executive functioning skills are what manage the brain.

You probably don’t even think about your own, or others, executive functioning skills. Unless, of course, you are confronted with a situation in which executive functioning is not functioning. Most of us intuitively understand the importance of executive functioning and have a sense of what it is, as well as a concern when we don’t “see” it in others. Certain times of fast growth, such as the tween/teen years can affect a child’s executive functioning, especially as the teen brain/body is doing some “Brain Pruning.” 

But for some people, executive functioning is more naturally difficult or possibly impaired.  These diagnoses can include ADHD, ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Processing Disorders, Dementia, and Traumatic Brain Injuries.

We are now offering a full year EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING CLASS FOR HIGH SCHOOL students.

Three Main Categories of Executive Functioning Skills

Working Memory

  • The ability to pay attention and to organize.
  • The ability to plan and prioritize; being organized during tasks school or work and the ability to set and meet goals..
  • Task initiation- taking action to get things done (motivation)
  • Keeping key information in mind while completing a task

Cognitive Flexibility (Flexible Thinking)

  • Understanding different points of view
  • Being able to adjust behavior to an unexpected change in the environment or schedule

Inhibitory Control

  • Regulating one’s own emotions, including controlling and appropriately channeling one’s feelings
  • Self-monitoring (keeping track of what you are doing) and self-awareness (how is one doing in the moment).
  • Controlling urges to “do”, thinking before acting or responding, exhibiting deferred gratification as well as perseverance.

Obviously, executive functioning skills are important – they allow us to interface with the world appropriately, build, and keep significant relationships and hold jobs.

Executive Functioning Skills for Struggling Learners

Join our Live online Executive Functioning Skills Class!

Providing a sensitive, nurturing learning environment this course will focus on skill-building.  We will be focusing on breaking down larger, every day tasks to make them more manageable and discuss how to create their own personalized daily routine.  The students will also be able to improve their day to day school and family life as we work in the following areas:

  • making schedules
  • creating a personal calendar
  • creating short, effective lists
  • tips to help our memory
  • understanding how our actions affect others

How Do Executive Functioning Disorders Manifest?

People with executive functioning issues may exhibit one or more of the following:

  • Impulse or emotional control
  • The ability to begin, organize, plan and follow through on task completion.
  • The inability to listen or pay attention.
  • The inability to manage one’s time.
  • The inability to multi-task or juggle multiple tasks, even if they are sequential
  • Short term memory issues, including an inability to remember what they’ve just heard
  • Difficulty following a sequence of steps.
  • Difficulty changing from one task to another.
  • Socially inappropriate behavior such as angry or aggressive behavior, statements about self-harm or destruction of property

If you suspect you or someone in your family has issues with executive functioning, all is not lost! You can accommodate or learn coping skills.

Teaching Coping Skills

Tips and tools to ramp up those executive functioning skills include:

  • Visual schedules
  • Positive reinforcement
  • Motivation
  • Planners
  • Organizational techniques
  • Working memory exercises
  • Item lists
  • Self-emotional recognition techniques
  • Flexible seating
  • Slowly introducing differences in schedules to provide flexible thinking
  • Extra transitional times
  • Frequent breaks
  • Timers or alarms during tasks
  • Explicit instruction
  • Organized homework or assignment binder
  • Parent/student contract agreement
  • Clearly defined academic and social expectations
  • Logic games, puzzles, and coursework

Executive Functioning is the management of the brain. For kids with executive functioning disorders, it is important to fortify them with resources, materials, and processes that will help them with those struggles throughout life. ~Lisa Nehring

Junior/Senior High Study Skills will cover material to help students explore different methods, tools, and resources for studying well.

Join our Junior/Senior High Study Skills Class!

Stuents will cover material to help students explore different methods, tools, and resources for studying well and effectively.

Each online class will include an overview of topics such as identifying learning preferences, using multiple senses, organizing a study space, managing time, handling stress, memorizing, taking notes, annotating and outlining, researching, proofreading, citing sources, and preparing for tests.

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Do you kids need a Mental Health Boost?

Do you kids need a Mental Health Boost?

Have you noticed a general crankiness in the world? Do you kids and teens seem particularly affected? We are in what’s called the 4th industrial revolution. Revolutions bring disruption and change- we’re seeing this played out in commerce, in education, in churches- basically across society. And our kids are feeling this! Statistically they are feeling scared, anxious and lonely. And so, it’s a great time to really focus on Bible study. Help your kids get their feet firmly planted and adjust course so that they are headed True North. Why study the Bible? Not only is it a fun intellectual pursuit as kids make connections and see Gods sweeping plan throughout history; not only is it chock full of amazing literary tropes and genres. And, it also helps your kids emotionally in ways that might surprise you! Let’s jump in!

5 Ways Studying the Bible Strengthens Your Kids Mental Health

Stability and Anchoring

During times of societal disruption, people may experience fear, anxiety, and confusion. Bible study can offer comfort and hope, reminding individuals of God’s promises, His faithfulness throughout history, and the ultimate hope found in Jesus Christ. It provides reassurance that God can bring redemption and restoration even in the midst of challenging times. Its stories of resilience, triumph over adversity, and God’s faithfulness inspire them to persevere through difficulties, reminding them that they are not alone in their challenges.

Moral Guidance

The Bible serves as a powerful source of moral guidance for teens, providing them with timeless principles and values to navigate the challenges of life. Its teachings on honesty, kindness, forgiveness, and self-discipline can shape our kids character and help them make wise decisions. Engaging with the Bible nurtures the spiritual growth of teens, allowing them to deepen their relationship with God and develop a strong faith foundation. Its teachings on prayer, worship, and spiritual disciplines provide them with practical tools to connect with God and experience His transformative power in their lives.

Life of Christ (Bible at the Movies): Chosen Season 1 Instructor: Melissa Grande Time: Wednesdays 9:00AM CT

Bible at the Movies/ Life of Christ

Take a deep dive into the Life of Christ by watching the popular “Chosen” series, comparing and contrasting it to what the Bible says. For High School students, this engaging and fascinating class will be build discernment, critical thinking and a much deeper understanding of the Bible!

Personal Identity

The Bible offers teens a deeper understanding of their personal identity and purpose. It reminds them that they are uniquely created and loved by God, instilling a sense of self-worth and empowering them to overcome insecurities and peer pressure. Furthermore, the Bible is a treasure trove of wisdom that can guide teens through the complexities of life. Its practical advice on relationships, decision-making, handling conflicts, and managing emotions equips them with valuable insights to navigate various situations with wisdom and discernment.

Perspective and Guidance

The Bible offers a broader perspective beyond the immediate circumstances. It reminds individuals that God is sovereign and in control, even amidst chaos. Bible study can provide guidance on how to respond to societal disruptions with grace, love, and wisdom, aligning one’s actions with God’s will.

Discernment and Discipleship

Society may be filled with conflicting messages, ideologies, and values during times of disruption. Bible study equips individuals with discernment to critically evaluate these influences and align their beliefs and actions with biblical principles. It enables them to stand firm in their faith and actively live out their values, becoming positive agents of change in society.

Bible Study is Part of Your Parent Support Team

Teaching your kids to study the bible, or better yet, studying it with them, is like having a parent support team that extends across time! The truths of the Bible are as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago providing sage parenting advice!

While studying the Bible isn’t a magic pill and doesn’t cure everything, it can connect your kids with God’s timeless truths, helping them to keep both feet firmly grounded on solid groud, while heading True North!

Biblical Feasts and Festivals, an online class for junior high and high school homeschoolers.

Biblical Feasts and Festivals

This class is a fascinating look at the Biblical Feasts and Festivals in the Bible. In this class students will discover sacred times of the Bible, including Sabbath, Celebrating the new month, the 3 pilgrimage festivals, festivals of the new year and festivals added in later times. Students LOVE this class, and it comes highly recommended by former students!

Feeling overwhelmed by yet another thing to do? Let us do the heavy lifting! Our Bible classes are challenging, inspiring and fun! Kids deep dive into the Bible, meaning they read it, begin to develop an underextending of it contextually, and prayerfully consider how to apply it to today’s world and their own lives.

Check out all of our Bible and related Classes: