This summer, I took a certified nursing assistant course in order to work toward my goal of becoming a physician assistant. Within the program, we had three eight-hour “professional development” days in which we learned workplace professionalism, including hiring practices. I then realized that many teens and even younger adults struggle with this. I mean, in my CNA class, I was a 19-year-old competing against women who had many more years of experience than I did. How is someone who is younger and does not have nearly the same life experience as someone who is older, compete with this?

Well, honestly, you just need to be prepared.

Personally, I have realized that some people, even companies that are interviewing and hiring, sometimes are hesitant to hire younger people, especially with minimal experience. It is understandable, but this is where you need to prove them wrong. From the moment you step into that building where your interview is being held, you act professional. But what exactly is “professional?”

Let’s begin with how to dress.

Of course, everyone knows the basic “rules” -- no low-cut tops, no shorts, no denim jeans, and men wear suits.

Do not wear overly baggy or excessively tight clothing. Generally, they tell you to be neutral and avoid wearing prints, but do not let this compromise your own personal style. Within reason, make sure that you are comfortable with your outfit, and even add small accents of your own style. For example, maybe include a small reasonable pop of color into your outfit.

Learn how to write an impressive cover letter and resume.

This could be difficult when you haven’t had much experience rather than small here-and-there jobs, but recognize the transferable skills you have gained. Did you work in retail? That would show you must have pretty good people and communication skills. Were you ever an officer or leader in any clubs you have been in? That shows that you know how to be in charge but also compromise with others. Did you ever play on a sports team? Then you would have great experience in teamwork and you know the importance of your role within a team.

Nail the interview.

Honestly, interviewing only gets better with practice. You need to research typical job questions, focusing on questions typically asked for the field you’re going into, and you need to practice them over and over. Practice writing them, speaking them out loud to yourself, and even hold mock interviews to help you get over your nerves. If you find yourself coming short on things to talk about, especially if they ask you if you have experience in that field, instead of blanking, use it to your advantage. Turn this weakness into a strength by saying that since you have not held a position in this field yet, you are fresh and they can now train and mold you into the employee they want you to be. You have not picked up the bad habits of other employees, and make them realize how great that is.

Overall, getting hired somewhere is a balance of having the qualifications, knowing how to sell yourself and your skills, and being confident in yourself that you are right for this job. Before you go into an interview, make sure you understand their company and decide if this is a good fit for you, and if you would be a good fit for them. Get a better understanding of who you are, including your strengths, and learn how to turn your weaknesses into strengths. Be confident, but not cocky. Know your worth, but do not flaunt it. As a young adult, this is your time to show that just because you are young, it does not mean that you are not professional or not deserving of the position.