Is your teen ready for the interview?

As teenagers work on final projects and study for final exams, many also split their attention looking for a summer job. The prospect of facing an interview can be frightening, especially for first-time jobseekers. This quick true-false quiz could help them ace the interview.

1. If you blow the first interview, you'll get a second chance.

FALSE. "The theme we try to impart on the teen jobseekers we come in contact with is, 'You never get a second chance to make a first impression,'" says Ida Lynn Wenhold, executive director of the nonprofit KidsMatter organization in Naperville, Ill. that helps to build developmental assets in youth. "We tell them they have to make the most of their first encounter."

Being on time, dressing nicely and offering a firm handshake tell a prospective employer about you before you even open your mouth, says Cindy Hradil, co-owner of Two Moms Babysitting.

2. I should take my time to find the right job, rather than taking the first job offer that comes along.

TRUE. "We encourage teens to consider some key questions before they start looking for jobs," Wenhold says. "Answering these questions first will help them put their best foot forward."

Do you prefer working inside or outside?

Are you better suited for clerical work, working with kids, hard labor, or another area?

What types of jobs do your skills, qualities and experiences qualify you for?

How will you get to and from work?

How many hours do you plan to work each week?

3. Employers are looking for just any teen willing to do the job for the pay being offered.

FALSE. Employers are seeking candidates who communicate well, who are honest, who are good with teamwork, and who have a good work ethic, Wenhold says.

Hradil says she's looking for teens who show enthusiasm and can explain what makes them well-qualified for the position - especially compared with the others applying.

4. I have no idea what to expect in an interview, so I should just wing it.

FALSE. Wenhold recommends that teens rehearse the answers to typical interview questions (see box) with a friend or parent. "Be prepared and think about what makes you unique, what makes you stand out from the other six people waiting to interview," she says. "I challenge teens to think about how a teacher would describe them and what makes them special."

Also know why you're interested in the position, Hradil says.

5. I can ask questions too.

TRUE. In fact, Wenhold says, asking good questions will show prospective employers that you've thought about the process, what it means to you, and what it means to them. Avoid making the first question about pay, though. Instead, she says, focus on questions that show you understand the job or you want to know how you can best do the job.

6. I have a ton of summer commitments - a family reunion, camp and summer school. I have to keep that to myself if I want to get a job.

FALSE. "If you offer that information upfront, it shows you're responsible and care about their time and scheduling needs," Wedhold says. Offering the information in a mature way will also make a good impression - one that just might entice an employer into working with your schedule.

Tom Belgio, owner of Belgio's Catering, says it's something you want to get on the table with at least a general forecast. Even so, Hradil says, it's probably not the first thing you want to talk about. She says to offer the information at an appropriate time in the conversation, like when you're asked about your availability.

7. I can go straight from the poolside to a job interview. Employers won't care because they know I'm just a teen.

FALSE. Go to a job interview dressed appropriately. Showing up in a backward baseball cap or ripped jeans will not make a good impression and will probably make an employer think you're not serious about getting a job (see tips).

Belgio says a suit might not be necessary during an interview for a summer job, but at least wear clean clothes that are in good shape and have your hair combed. Torn jeans, even if they're fashionable, are not appropriate.

"I always say to dress one step above the position you're being hired for," he says."

- Emilie Arkin