Etiquette Boss: Interview questions for teens

At this time of year, many 12th grade students are studying hard and preparing their applications for Ivy League and other colleges. At the same time, others who have just graduated from those colleges are preparing resumes and nervously anticipating job interviews.

Both sets of young people have one possible stress in common: how to answer interview questions so that they leave a favorable impression. A very common ice breaker that is asked by many interviewers: “Tell me a little about yourself.”

Some teens launch into a list of their hobbies, while others do not know how to answer this question. They should be told that the focus should be on their activities that would benefit that university or organization. For example, “I like to swim and travel” is fine, but a little more is needed for a business interview. “I enjoy teaching small children, so I volunteer to help the six to 10-year-old age group in my church with their homework” is a better opening answer, because it shows a sense of responsibility and compassion.

Teens usually find it difficult to focus on their strengths, but they should realize that their part-time job at a supermarket or bakery can easily show that they have communication skills. “I have a part time job at a bakery that I enjoy very much because I get to interact with many different cultures and ages in my community” is a great partial answer to this question in a business setting.

Parents can do some mock interviews based on this question and help the young people prepare for what could otherwise have them fumbling for answers. It would also make them much more comfortable, as they realize that they are building very valuable business skills in many of their part-time activities.

Turning back the clock

In my one-year experiment to turn back the clock by my next birthday, I am constantly trying new things; some work, and others I discard. I have been given an excellent recommendation for 100 percent pure hyaluronic acid solution. I bought it on eBay for less than $20 and mix it with my moisturizer. I have noticed my skin is getting tighter. I think that it makes the moisturizer more potent.

I still use the liquid Vitamin C as a base. Vitamin C with a few drops of glycerin is excellent, and it is always the first thing I apply after cleaning my face. Join me if you wish. I would be delighted to hear what works best for you.

Phillipa Morrish is the president of Etiquette Training International.