Interview Questions to Ask an Intern

Interview Questions to Ask an Intern

Strategic questions to ask an intern during an interview to assess their potential, motivation, and fit for the role.

1

What are your career goals, and how does this internship align with them?

Essential for understanding their motivation and whether they're serious about the opportunity.

2

What are your strengths and weaknesses, and how do you plan to improve?

Important for understanding their self-awareness and commitment to growth.

3

What are your expectations for this internship, and what do you hope to learn?

Crucial for understanding their learning goals and ensuring alignment with what you can offer.

4

What are your previous work experiences, and what have you learned from them?

Essential for understanding their background and how they've grown from past experiences.

5

What are your academic interests, and how do they relate to this role?

Important for understanding their educational background and how it applies to the work.

6

What are your communication skills, and how do you handle feedback?

Crucial for understanding how they'll interact with the team and respond to guidance.

7

What are your time management skills, and how do you prioritize tasks?

Essential for understanding how they'll handle multiple responsibilities and deadlines.

8

What are your problem-solving skills, and how do you approach challenges?

Important for understanding how they'll handle difficult situations and find solutions.

9

What are your teamwork skills, and how do you collaborate with others?

Crucial for understanding how they'll work with the team and contribute to group projects.

10

What are your technology skills, and what tools are you familiar with?

Essential for understanding their technical abilities and what training they might need.

11

What are your research skills, and how do you gather information?

Important for understanding how they'll approach learning and information gathering.

12

What are your writing skills, and how do you communicate ideas?

Crucial for understanding how they'll document their work and communicate findings.

13

What are your presentation skills, and how do you share information?

Essential for understanding how they'll present their work and ideas to others.

14

What are your leadership skills, and how do you take initiative?

Important for understanding their potential for growth and leadership development.

15

What are your learning styles, and how do you acquire new skills?

Crucial for understanding how they'll learn and adapt to new challenges.

16

What are your work preferences, and what environment do you thrive in?

Essential for understanding their work style and how they'll fit with the team.

17

What are your long-term career plans, and how does this internship fit?

Important for understanding their commitment and potential for future opportunities.

18

What are your questions about this internship, and what would you like to know?

Crucial for understanding their interest level and what they want to learn about the role.

19

What are your availability and scheduling preferences?

Essential for understanding their time constraints and how they'll fit with your needs.

20

What are your goals for professional development, and how can we help you achieve them?

Important for understanding their growth mindset and how you can support their development.

Want to learn more?

Interviewing Intern Candidates

Before the Interview

Review Their Application

Read their resume, cover letter, and any other application materials.

Prepare Your Questions

Write down questions that will help you assess their fit for the role.

Set Clear Expectations

Be clear about what the internship involves and what you expect from them.

During the Interview

Create a Comfortable Environment

Make them feel at ease so they can show their true potential.

Listen Actively

Pay attention to their responses and ask follow-up questions.

Assess Their Potential

Look for signs of motivation, curiosity, and willingness to learn.

After the Interview

Evaluate Their Fit

Consider how well they would fit with your team and culture.

Check References

Follow up with their references to get additional insights.

Make a Decision

Decide whether to offer them the internship based on your assessment.