Interview Skills

Awareness & Understanding

Interviews feel scary because most people have never been taught how they actually work. An interview is a two-way conversation — the employer is figuring out if you're right for the role, and you're figuring out if the role is right for you. Start by watching the YouTube channel "Self Made Millennial" and searching "interview tips" on Indeed's YouTube channel — both give honest, practical advice. Read the free guides at themuse.com and glassdoor.com to understand what interviewers are really looking for behind their questions. Think about a time you've been evaluated — a tryout, an audition, a presentation — and notice what made it go well or poorly. You're ready for the next step when you can describe what an interviewer is trying to learn about you and why first impressions matter.

Research & Investigation

Research the specific types of interviews you're most likely to face. The most common format is behavioral interviewing, where employers ask you to describe past situations using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Search "STAR method interview" on YouTube and watch two or three examples. Visit Utah's Department of Workforce Services (jobs.utah.gov) — they offer free career resources and interview prep for Utah residents. Look up the company or organization you want to work for and read their website, mission statement, and recent news so you can speak specifically about why you want to be there. You're ready for the next step when you can explain the STAR method and write out one complete STAR story from your own experience.

Planning & Preparation

Prepare your full interview toolkit. Write out answers to the 10 most common interview questions — search "most common interview questions" at Indeed.com for a solid list. For each answer, use the STAR method and keep it under 90 seconds when spoken aloud. Prepare three questions to ask the interviewer at the end — good questions show you've done your homework. Put together a clean, simple resume using a free template from Canva.com or Google Docs. Print two or three copies. Plan your outfit a week ahead so you're not scrambling. Research the location or the video platform if it's a virtual interview. You're ready for the next step when you have written answers to 10 questions, three questions to ask, and a printed resume ready to go.

Taking Action

Practice out loud — this is the step most people skip and the one that matters most. Set up a mock interview with a parent, teacher, school counselor, or friend. Have them ask you the questions you prepared and give you honest feedback. Record yourself on your phone and watch it back — notice your eye contact, filler words ("um," "like"), posture, and pace. Then do the real thing: apply for and attend at least one actual interview, even for a volunteer position, part-time job, or school program. The Utah Career Center at the U of U (careers.utah.edu) and local high school counselors can connect you with practice interview programs. You're ready for the next step when you have completed at least one mock interview and one real interview.

Leadership & Expansion

Now help others get interview-ready. Run a mini interview workshop for classmates, younger students, or friends — share the STAR method, do practice questions, and give each other constructive feedback. Create a simple one-page "Interview Cheat Sheet" summarizing the key tips and post it in your school, library, or community center. If your school has a DECA, FBLA, or career club, offer to facilitate a session. Reach out to a local employer or HR professional and ask if they'd be willing to do a 20-minute "insider Q&A" for your group — most are glad to help. You're ready for the next step when you have led at least one interview prep session for others and gathered feedback on how it went.

Impact & Reflection

Reflect on the full arc of your growth. Write a before-and-after comparison: how did you feel about interviews when you started, and how do you feel now? What specific techniques made the biggest difference? What would you tell a nervous friend who has their first interview tomorrow? Compile your STAR stories, your cheat sheet, your resume, and your reflection into a career portfolio — a Google Drive folder or a simple PDF works great. Update your LinkedIn profile (linkedin.com) or create one if you don't have one yet, using what you've learned to write a strong summary. You're ready for the next step when your portfolio is complete, your resume is polished, and you feel genuinely prepared to walk into any interview.