Imagine this: you’re in an interview for a student position—whether a working student role or an internship. The interviewer says, “Alright, here’s a question for you…” and shows you something completely unfamiliar. How would you respond?
This scenario might sound intimidating, but it’s something I’ve encountered time and again as an interviewer. The good news? You don’t have to know all the answers to make a lasting impression.
In this post, I’ll share six practical tips for students applying for working student or internship roles in Germany. These insights come from my personal experience as both a candidate and an interviewer, and I hope they’ll help you feel prepared and confident.
Tip 1: Confirm Interview Attendance
Once you receive an interview invitation, reply promptly to confirm your attendance. Surprisingly, many candidates skip this step, leaving the interviewer unsure if they’ll show up.
I’ve experienced this firsthand, and let me tell you—it’s not ideal to sit there five minutes before the scheduled time, wondering if the candidate will actually join.
A quick, polite email not only shows professionalism but also sets a positive tone for the conversation ahead.
Tip 2: Research the Company and the Role
Before your interview, spend time researching the company and the role you’re applying for. While you don’t need to memorize the entire website or annual report, understanding the basics is crucial.
I’ve interviewed candidates who didn’t even know which position they applied for—it’s an instant red flag. On the other hand, candidates who say something like, “I noticed you have two open positions, but I feel my skills align more with [Position A]” make an excellent impression.
This level of preparation demonstrates genuine interest, initiative, and respect for the interviewer’s time.
Tip 3: Be Honest About Your Skills
When interviewers ask you to rate your skills, honesty is key. For example, if you’re asked, “On a scale from 1 to 10, how would you rate your Python or Power BI skills?” resist the urge to oversell yourself.
If you confidently rate yourself as a “9” or “10,” it may raise questions about why you’re applying for a student role instead of a full-time job. Remember, these roles are designed for growth and learning.
It’s okay to say, “I’d rate myself as a 6 or 7 because I’ve worked on some projects, but I’m eager to improve and learn more in this role.” Employers value humility, self-awareness, and a willingness to grow.
Tip 4: Ask for Clarification When Needed
If a question isn’t clear, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification. It’s better to ensure you fully understand the question than to give an unrelated or incorrect answer.
For example, you could say:
“Let me make sure I understand. Are you asking if…?”
This approach shows that you’re thoughtful, attentive, and not afraid to seek clarity—qualities that are highly valued in any role.
Tip 5: You Don’t Need to Know All the Answers
One of the biggest myths about interviews is that you must know everything. That’s simply not true. What matters more is how you handle challenging situations.
Here’s a real example from my experience:
During an interview, my boss asked a candidate a tricky logic question. The student didn’t know the answer immediately but remained calm, repeated the question to confirm her understanding, and worked through it step by step.
With a few hints, she eventually figured it out. Later, I asked my boss what would’ve happened if she hadn’t solved it. He said, “It’s not about getting the correct answer; it’s about how a person handles challenges.”
This reinforced an important lesson: your attitude, thought process, and willingness to learn are just as important as your technical skills.
Tip 6: Follow Up with a Thank-You Email
After the interview, take a few minutes to send a thank-you email to your interviewer. It’s a small gesture, but it leaves a lasting impression.
A thoughtful follow-up email can set you apart, especially in cases where multiple candidates have similar skills and experience. It shows that you appreciate the opportunity and are genuinely interested in the role.
Bonus: What’s the Answer to the Question?
Let’s go back to the logic puzzle I mentioned earlier, here’s how it works:
- 1 + 1 + 1 + 1 = FOUR → R
- 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 = EIGHT → T
- 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 = TWELVE → E
- 4 + 4 + 4 + 4 = SIXTEEN → R
- 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 = TWENTY → Y
The answer is: 5 5 5 5 Y.
Final Thoughts
Interviews aren’t about being perfect—they’re about showcasing your potential, character, and willingness to learn. As someone who has been on both sides of the table, I can tell you that preparation, honesty, and a positive attitude go a long way.
So the next time you’re in an interview and faced with a question you don’t immediately know how to answer, remember this: it’s okay. Focus on how you approach the challenge, stay calm, and be yourself.
💡 Got an interview coming up? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!
👉 Don’t forget to watch the full video for more insights: https://youtu.be/tKGPdgEXJJQ
