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Honors Insight > Economy > Mastering the Art of Job Interviews: Essential Tips for Gen Z Graduates

Mastering the Art of Job Interviews: Essential Tips for Gen Z Graduates

Megan Rathmell was certain she had failed her paralegal job interview. Nerves had gotten the best of her, and at just 20 years old, she doubted her performance stood a chance. But when she was offered the position a few weeks later, she was taken aback by the feedback she received from her future boss.

“He said my ability to maintain eye contact and speak clearly is what made me stand out, something he rarely sees in candidates my age,” said Rathmell, reflecting on how the experience shifted her understanding of what employers value.

For many hiring managers, Rathmell’s case is indicative of a broader issue they see in today’s job market, especially among Gen Z applicants. While the number of opportunities for young professionals continues to grow, recruiters are noticing a trend: many graduates enter the interview process unprepared or with behaviors that come off as unprofessional. Whether it’s showing up to interviews with their parents, neglecting to dress appropriately, or refusing to turn on their cameras in virtual meetings, these missteps can seriously hurt their chances of being hired.

“There have always been candidates who underperform in interviews, but lately, it seems to be happening more frequently,” explained Dr. Nathan Mondragon, chief innovation officer at HireVue. He attributes part of the issue to the rise of digital communication, where young adults, especially those who came of age during the pandemic, have become less accustomed to in-person interactions. The shift from face-to-face socialization to screen-based communication has left some young candidates uncomfortable or inexperienced in presenting themselves confidently.

There’s also the matter of over-involved parenting, which sometimes hampers a candidate’s independence. While many parents are eager to help their children, some end up overly involved, even attending interviews with them—a practice that immediately raises red flags for hiring managers. On the flip side, young adults who lack parental guidance can also find themselves at a disadvantage, particularly when they are unaware of what constitutes professional etiquette in a corporate setting.

Resumes: Your First Impression

Before any candidate even reaches the interview stage, the resume is the first opportunity to make an impression. Stacie Haller, chief career advisor at ResumeBuilder, emphasizes that a well-structured, succinct resume can be the key to securing an interview. Employers typically spend no more than six seconds scanning a resume, which means candidates must grab their attention quickly with clear, relevant information. Tailoring the resume to match the specific role is a simple but often overlooked tactic that can make all the difference.

Why Research Matters

For Dr. Nicolas Roulin, professor of industrial/organizational psychology, one of the biggest mistakes candidates make is failing to conduct proper research before an interview. Too often, job seekers ask basic questions about the company—questions they could have easily found answers to online. This signals to recruiters that the candidate hasn’t done their homework, casting doubt on their interest in the position.

Understanding the company’s goals, culture, and industry landscape can significantly strengthen a candidate’s responses during the interview. More than that, it demonstrates initiative and a genuine desire to contribute to the organization. Candidates who take the time to understand the broader context of the role they’re applying for, including industry trends or recent company developments, can more effectively show how they will add value.

Practice and Storytelling: Preparation Equals Confidence

While technical skills and qualifications are essential, storytelling is one of the most powerful tools candidates can use during interviews. Dr. Roulin suggests using the STAR technique—Situation, Task, Action, Result—as a way to frame success stories from previous jobs or academic projects. By using this method, candidates can offer concrete examples of their problem-solving abilities and leadership qualities, making it easier for interviewers to picture them excelling in the role.

Practicing answers to common interview questions, as well as preparing thoughtful questions of their own, is another critical part of interview preparation. Asking about company culture, team dynamics, or opportunities for growth not only shows interest but also helps candidates evaluate if the job is a good fit for them.

Final Impressions: Professionalism and Follow-Up

The way candidates present themselves is as important as what they say. Business casual is usually a safe bet for interview attire, regardless of the company’s day-to-day dress code. Showing up well-groomed and polished signals respect for the opportunity. For virtual interviews, it’s essential to find a quiet, professional space free from distractions, and always keep the camera on throughout the conversation.

After the interview, sending a follow-up email within 24 hours is a professional courtesy that should not be overlooked. It serves as a chance to reiterate the candidate’s interest in the position and to thank the interviewer for their time, while subtly reinforcing their qualifications. In today’s competitive job market, it’s often the smallest details that make the biggest difference. With the right preparation, research, and presentation, new graduates can significantly boost their chances of turning interviews into job offers.