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Interviewing (Student Employment)

Interviews allow the job applicants to learn about the position and the work setting, and the interviewer to find the best fit for the position.

Conducting the Student Interview

• During the interview, both parties should come to an understanding of expectations.
• Departments must inform all applicants of the essential functions of the position. You can find descriptions of the various positions at the job classification page.
• The Michigan Department of Civil Rights Pre-Employment Inquiry Guide should be consulted.
• A structured interview insures that all candidates for the position are asked the same questions in the same way. Pre-employment testing is not permitted. It is best to have a list of questions to ask all candidates. Questions can be open-ended ("Can you give me an example of ... ? "), or "yes" or "no" answers ("Can you operate a ... ?"). You need to be specific on necessary information concerning driving a car or other skills essential to the position. It is risky to assume anything.  Some sample questions might be:

We need the student employee to be available for 12 hours a week. Are you able to be here 12 hours a week, including final exam week?
What computer software programs are you proficient in?
Do you have a valid vehicle operator's license?
Do you enjoy meeting and greeting people?
Tell me/us what you enjoyed most about your last job.  Why?

• Remain within legal guidelines. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, employers are prohibited from discriminating against an individual based on disability status in employment practices such as hiring, wages and termination. Also, Michigan State University's Anti-Discrimination Policy prohibits discrimination on the basis of age, color, gender, handicap, height, marital status, national origin, political persuasion, race, religion, sexual orientation, Vietnam-era veteran status, or weight. You can find a reproduction of the Pre-Employment Inquiry Guide, published by the Michigan Department of Civil Rights provides information on what questions may and may not legally be asked of an applicant.

Go Back to the Student Employment Manual Index

This Student Employment Manual provides information related to hiring and working with student employees.  If you are not able to find the answer to your question here, please contact MSU Student Employment.