Nailed It! How to Ace Common Interview Questions

Written by: Abigail Ellis

Publish Date: 2/3/2026

Interviews can feel super intimidating, especially when you’re trying to land your first job or internship. You're sitting across from someone you don’t know, your hands are sweaty, and you’re trying to say the right thing without sounding like a robot.

Here’s the good news: you don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be prepared. And with the right mindset and a little practice, you can walk into any interview with confidence,

and walk out feeling like a boss.

Let’s break it down with 5 action steps to help you get ready for common interview questions and some fun ways to practice with a friend or family member.

5 Action Steps to Crush Common Interview Questions

✅ 1. Know the Most Asked Questions

You don’t need a crystal ball—just a cheat sheet! Here are a few questions that pop up in almost every interview:

• “Tell me about yourself.”

• “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”

• “Why do you want to work here?”

• “Tell me about a time you faced a challenge and how you handled it.”

• “Where do you see yourself in five years?”

Action Step: Write down your answers to these questions in your own voice—nothing too fancy, just honest and clear.

✅ 2. Use the STAR Method

When answering questions about past experiences (like a challenge you’ve faced), try this method:

S – Situation: What was going on?

T – Task: What needed to be done?

A – Action: What did you do?

R – Result: What happened in the end?

Action Step: Practice 1 or 2 STAR stories about school, sports, volunteering, or even helping at home. Interviewers love real examples!

✅ 3. Practice Your “Tell Me About Yourself” Answer

This one always kicks things off. Instead of listing your whole life story, keep it short and focused:

• Who you are (student, teen with strong people skills, etc.)

• Something you’re good at

• What you’re looking for (experience, growth, a chance to help customers, etc.)

Action Step: Write a 30-second version of your answer and practice saying it out loud.

✅ 4. Ask Questions Back

At the end of the interview, you’ll probably hear, “Do you have any questions for me?” Don’t say “no!”Great questions show that you're serious and curious. Try these:

• “What does a typical day look like in this job?”

• “What are the most important skills for someone in this role?”

• “What do you enjoy most about working here?”

Action Step: Pick 2 questions you’re comfortable asking, and bring them with you!

✅ 5. Practice, Don’t Memorize

You want to sound natural, not scripted. The best way to do that? Practice like it’s real.

Action Step:Ask a friend, family member, or mentor to be your “interviewer.” Give them 3–5 common questions to ask you.

• Practice in a quiet room.

• Sit up straight.

• Make eye contact (or pretend if you're on video!).

• Shake hands (if in person) and smile!

Then switch roles and interview them, you’ll learn both ways!

Bonus Idea: Record your practice interview on your phone. Watch it to check your tone, speed, and body language. Don’t worry if it’s awkward at first, it gets easier!

Remember, interviewers aren’t looking for perfect answers. They want to know if you’re prepared, respectful, and someone they can count on. Your personality, your effort, and your willingness to learn go a long way.

So breathe, smile, and speak with confidence. You already have what it takes, now it’s just about showing it.