Useful
Student Job Interview 1x1 – Prepare for the Unexpected!
We’ve shared the main features of a successful job interview with you before, but now it's time to refresh those insights! Compared to our previous tips, we bring you current, student job interview tips specifically tailored for preparing for the autumn work season! While our coordinators already call or email you about positions based on your applications, it’s possible that the student job interview will be decisive when our partner listens to you.
Successful Student Job Interview = Accurate Application
When applying for a position, you need to provide your availability and skills. It's crucial to fill these out honestly and accurately. During the student job interview, it's assessed whether the details you provided in your application match reality. If our partner requires certain software knowledge, only apply for the job if you already meet all the conditions at the time of applying!
If you’re not yet planning to take a job, scope out the field to understand the expectations for positions that might interest you. A little research and diligence can nearly guarantee that you'll secure the job when you apply!
Is Your English Really Conversational Level?
Many positions (including hostess and hospitality jobs) require conversational level English. During the student job interview, our partners might initiate a conversation in English to assess if your language skills are up-to-date. You can effectively prepare for this scenario by watching series in English with English subtitles, as these contain authentic phrases that can impress your interviewer. Additionally, try speaking exercises, such as talking about coherent topics in front of a mirror in English. You might also ask your friends to refresh your language skills together.
During the Student Job Interview
Group Tasks
If you're applying for a job where teamwork is essential and you need to cooperate with others (like in fast-food jobs), group tasks may be assigned during the student job interview. You might be asked to develop a strategy or solve a task related to the company in small groups. Here, the focus is on how much of a team player you are, how well you contribute to the tasks, and during feedback, they’re interested in your individual experiences. The key is to be open to others and to the tasks, and feel free to express even your boldest ideas! Creativity and curiosity are always winning traits.
Puzzling HR Questions: There's a Way Out!
“Which aspects of the company do you think could be improved?” “Can you mention a situation where you made a mistake?” “What do you like most about your field of study?” Such unexpected questions can also pop up at the job interview (although they are less common than an English conversation). These can be tough to prepare for, but not impossible. You can deflect uncomfortable situations with some research. If you're preparing for a student job interview, definitely:
Research the Company: Read the "About Us" section, familiarize yourself with their goals, and think about why these appeal to you. They don’t expect you to parrot what you read on their website, but they do expect you to reflect on it.
Have a Ready Answer for Why You Want to Work in That Field Now: What motivates you to work in that particular position? What long-term benefits do you see for yourself?
Consider Your Past Work Experiences: What have been your experiences, and how have you benefited from them?
If you thoroughly consider these questions, you’ll surely navigate your way out of unexpected situations too.
More challenging questions might arise during the student job interview.
Ready to see what positions you might try yourself in? Check out our current open positions or look for a practical placement in our professional career program offerings!
