Internship interviews encompass a series of questions designed to test your knowledge and skills related to the industry and position. Answering the questions with enthusiasm and sincerity greatly increases your chances of landing the internship. One of the best ways to prepare for this interview is to read common interview questions and sample answers. Hence, we’ve compiled the following list that contains everything you need to know.
#1 Tell me about yourself.
Though this question seems pretty straightforward, take a moment and think about why the interviewer is asking the question. The central premise behind asking questions like this is to get a feel for your communication style and to learn more about your priorities and goals.
Here’s a sample response:
“I was born and raised in Missouri, but moved to Florida to attend the top-notch marketing program at the University of Florida. I’m captivated by the intersection between business development and marketing, and I love running simulations and exploring data-driven marketing strategies to see how they perform. Thus far, my best result was a 300% ROI on a digital marketing campaign. I can’t express how excited I am to get some real-world experience in the industry!”
#2 Why did you apply for this internship?
The interviewer already knows that you’re applying to gain industry experience. However, whether you found the opportunity on your own or if someone else gave you a lead, explain why you chose to apply using only facts. Hence, if someone recommends the position, acknowledge the person by letting the interviewer know.
Here’s a sample response:
“The thing that really stands out to me about this company is how social media is used to reach large audiences. I’m currently earning my master’s degree in marketing and communications. So, working with you and the marketing team will add value to my resume and build my skill set, as this opportunity allows me to work with a top 50 company that extensively uses social media for marketing.”
#3 Describe your knowledge of the industry and our company.
Some interviewers will have expected you to research the company before your interview, and you should! Spend time going through the company’s website and other competitors during your preparation. It’s great to look for news articles that you can reference during the interview to show you took the time to learn more about the company.
Here’s a sample response:
“As you probably know, this organization is among the nation’s top 20 public relations agencies. This industry has evolved over the past couple of decades with increased customer awareness, competition, and the availability of various platforms for campaigns. You’ve also been recognized as the best PR agency for innovative strategies five times. Your powerful, elegant, and positive campaigns have helped build healthy and credible brand images for many clients. As part of our case studies in my master’s degree program, I chose to pursue an internship with this company. I hope this position helps me better understand the industry’s nuances.”
#4 Why are you the most qualified candidate for the position?
Internships are in high demand, as academics sometimes require them. Still, many candidates use internships as a way to gain real-world work experience. For this reason, you may experience fierce competition when applying for open internships. Researching the position’s requirements and the company’s culture and background will provide what you need to know to answer this question.
Here’s a sample response:
“I conducted some research and found that this company is highly respected for its use of novel social media strategies. I have gained valuable experience in targeted social media campaigns from prior extra-curricular activities and classroom experience. I’ve also learned and contributed considerably in all previous marketing internship roles and aimed to help previous employers to the best of my abilities. For instance, I helped a former employer that was a startup, improve their social media engagement by over 25 percent. I have previous experience that matches your job requirements and can transfer that experience to this role.”
#5 Describe previous coursework that relates to this position.
If this is your first internship, you can almost guarantee that this question will be asked. They are testing your understanding of concepts and theories, so respond with relevant information that connects your syllabus to the role and company.
Here’s a sample response:
“There are three courses that come to mind, which are B2B marketing, public relations, and marketing research. This information taught me that marketing comprises multiple components, all of which are crucial for business development. The knowledge will help me succeed in the internship and can be useful when working with several departments.”
#6 Explain how you would work on a team and employ interpersonal skills during this internship.
As an intern, you’ll likely be one of the youngest and newest team members. An interviewer may ask this question to determine your willingness to be a team player and test your interest. Answer with enthusiasm and without hesitation.
Here’s a sample response:
“During a previous internship experience, I completed several group and individual projects. I have also worked for a startup as an intern and assisted charities with fundraising events. I’ve greatly enjoyed each of these roles, which have helped me gain valuable insight. As a leader, I have great active listening skills, take initiative, provide feedback, practice patience, make informed choices, and motivate team members. As a team member, I always adhere to schedules and communicate and collaborate effectively with every member. I’m willing to multi-task and help other team members when needed.”
#7 Tell me about a time you had to learn something entirely new.
Essentially, the hiring manager wants a candidate who’s eager and open to learning, not someone who is close-minded, won’t get value from experience, and will do the bare minimum. Yet, they also want someone who’s not afraid of taking on new assignments for the team and developing new skills.
Here’s a sample response:
“At a previous job, I had to learn more about creating quality and engaging content. So, I took a couple of online courses on how to effectively write business copy. Though I didn’t think that writing was my passion, it turns out that I’m an excellent writer. This adds value to my marketing career because content marketing is crucial in today’s business world. So, knowing how to write allows me to write articles as needed or properly edit those received from outside writers.”
#8 Do you have any questions for me?
One of the most important steps in preparing for your internship interview is compiling a list of thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. These questions can be about the position, the team, your potential manager, or the company. You have an expert at your fingertips, so take advantage of the situation and get your concerns answered.
Here’s a sample response:
“I do! Actually, I’ve compiled a list, so do you mind if I ask you a few?”
Here are a few questions to consider:
“What does your background look like and why did you stay with this company?”
“How do you measure success for an internship?”
“What do you love most about the company? Your position?”
“What are the key skills you guys are looking for in an intern? In what ways can an intern make your job easier?”
Closing Thoughts
Ultimately, if you’re interviewing for your dream internship, this is your opportunity to spend time preparing for the big event. Reviewing the questions and answers above is a great start, but don’t stop there! Don’t forget to conduct plenty of research about the company and position, conduct a mock interview, and compile that list of questions! If you do all of those things, you’re one step closer to securing your perfect internship.
