Interview Questions to Ask Interns
Strategic questions to ask intern candidates during interviews to assess their potential, motivation, and fit for your organization and internship program.
1What motivated you to apply for this internship, and what do you hope to gain from it?
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What motivated you to apply for this internship, and what do you hope to gain from it?
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Why this works
Reveals their motivation and goals, helping you understand what they want to achieve and whether it aligns with your program.
2What relevant experience do you have, and how does it relate to this internship?
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What relevant experience do you have, and how does it relate to this internship?
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Why this works
Assesses their background and whether they have the foundational skills needed for the internship.
3What is your understanding of our company and the role you would be filling?
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What is your understanding of our company and the role you would be filling?
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Why this works
Shows their preparation and research, indicating their genuine interest in the opportunity.
4What are your career goals, and how does this internship fit into your long-term plans?
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What are your career goals, and how does this internship fit into your long-term plans?
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Why this works
Helps you understand their career aspirations and whether the internship aligns with their goals.
5What skills do you want to develop during this internship, and how do you plan to do so?
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What skills do you want to develop during this internship, and how do you plan to do so?
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Why this works
Reveals their learning objectives and whether they're proactive about their own development.
6How do you handle feedback and what is your approach to learning from mistakes?
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How do you handle feedback and what is your approach to learning from mistakes?
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Why this works
Assesses their ability to learn and grow, which is crucial for internship success.
7What is your preferred work style, and how do you like to collaborate with others?
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What is your preferred work style, and how do you like to collaborate with others?
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Why this works
Helps you understand their working style and whether they'll fit well with your team.
8What challenges do you expect to face in this internship, and how do you plan to overcome them?
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What challenges do you expect to face in this internship, and how do you plan to overcome them?
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Why this works
Shows their self-awareness and problem-solving approach to potential challenges.
9What is your availability and commitment level for this internship?
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What is your availability and commitment level for this internship?
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Why this works
Ensures they can meet the time and commitment requirements of the internship.
10What questions do you have about our company, the internship, or the role?
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What questions do you have about our company, the internship, or the role?
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Why this works
Shows their engagement and interest in learning more about the opportunity.
11How do you prioritize tasks and manage your time when working on multiple projects?
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How do you prioritize tasks and manage your time when working on multiple projects?
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Why this works
Assesses their organizational skills and ability to handle multiple responsibilities.
12What is your approach to working with a team, and how do you contribute to team success?
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What is your approach to working with a team, and how do you contribute to team success?
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Why this works
Reveals their teamwork skills and how they work with others to achieve common goals.
13What is your experience with the tools and technologies we use in this role?
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What is your experience with the tools and technologies we use in this role?
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Why this works
Assesses their technical skills and whether they have experience with relevant tools.
14How do you handle ambiguity and uncertainty in your work?
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How do you handle ambiguity and uncertainty in your work?
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Why this works
Shows their ability to work in dynamic environments and adapt to changing circumstances.
15What is your approach to problem-solving and how do you tackle complex challenges?
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What is your approach to problem-solving and how do you tackle complex challenges?
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Why this works
Reveals their problem-solving skills and approach to handling difficult situations.
16What is your experience with communication and presenting your work to others?
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What is your experience with communication and presenting your work to others?
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Why this works
Assesses their communication skills and ability to present their work effectively.
17How do you stay current with industry trends and developments?
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How do you stay current with industry trends and developments?
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Why this works
Shows their commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with industry developments.
18What is your approach to building relationships and networking?
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What is your approach to building relationships and networking?
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Why this works
Reveals their networking skills and ability to build professional relationships.
19What is your experience with project management and meeting deadlines?
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What is your experience with project management and meeting deadlines?
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Why this works
Assesses their project management skills and ability to deliver results on time.
20What is your vision for how you would contribute to our team and organization?
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What is your vision for how you would contribute to our team and organization?
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Why this works
Shows their understanding of the role and how they envision contributing to the team's success.
Interviewing Intern Candidates
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Preparing for the Interview
Review Their Application
Familiarize yourself with their resume, cover letter, and any other application materials.
Prepare Your Questions
Write down your questions beforehand to ensure you cover all important topics.
Set Clear Expectations
Be prepared to explain the internship requirements, expectations, and what they can expect to learn.
Evaluating Candidates
Assess Their Potential
Look for candidates who show potential for growth and learning, not just current skills.
Consider Their Fit
Evaluate whether they would fit well with your team culture and work environment.
Check Their Motivation
Ensure they're genuinely interested in the opportunity and motivated to learn and contribute.
Making Your Decision
Compare Candidates
Compare candidates based on their skills, motivation, and fit with your team.
Consider Their Potential
Look for candidates who show potential for growth and learning, not just current abilities.
Trust Your Instincts
Choose candidates who feel right for your team and where you see potential for mutual benefit.