Job interviews are a way for employers to evaluate job applicants’ suitability, compatibility and appearance. Through this process, employers get a chance to meet applicants and ask questions about experience and abilities.

Interviewers often ask questions that don’t have specific answers, such as tell me about yourself. Questions such as these allow employers to get a feel of how the applicant reacts in an environment without clear instructions.

“Prior to interviewing an applicant, I do a background check on them and I check their records. I like to interview them to see how well they work under pressure and to see how they present themselves. After the interview, I contact their former employers to see how efficient they were and how good they were at their job,” said Nadine Stollenmaier, president of an employment agency.

In preparation for an interview, teens should practice and run through basic interview questions. Teens should also do research on the company. Employers sometimes ask basic questions about the company, just to ensure the applicant’s seriousness about the position.

Since employers are interested in applicants’ abilities, applicants should be ready to discuss accomplishments and capabilities. It’s also important not to talk too much or give every personal detail. Applicants should keep things to-the-point on achievements and capabilities.

“I work at a Japanese bakery, so they took interest in me because I am fluent in Japanese. They called me on the phone one day, asked me a few questions in Japanese. Then, I was hired a couple days later. Before I worked there, Bath and Body Works offered me a job and told me they’d pay me a larger salary since I could speak Japanese,” said junior Noel Kenny.

One of the biggest mistakes teens make in an interview includes dressing inappropriately. It’s important to look professional. Attire affects the employer’s view of the applicant as a whole. Dressing in business-casual clothes is always recommended.

Showing up late for the interview is another mistake. Arriving late to an interview shows poor time management skills and makes an overall bad impression.

Another mistake is bringing a drink or food to the interview. It can be seen as too casual and disrespectful by the employer.

“I went in for a job interview once. It was very casual and laid-back, so it wasn’t that bad. I wore things that I thought were acceptable for a Baskin Robbins interview. I look back and I wish I had taken it a little more seriously seeing as I didn’t get a call back from them,” said junior Malia Weisskopf.