Give your time: 5 reasons to volunteer for TeenQuest mock interviews

As a pre-employment and leadership training program, TeenQuest equips students with the skills they need to get and keep a job and succeed in whatever path they take. 

“We’re laying the foundation for these teen’s futures,” says Brianna Mosier, executive director of Flint & Genesee Education & Talent. “Through our mock interviews, local professionals can help do the same.” 

At the end of each TeenQuest session, students participate in mock interviews to help prepare them for entering the workforce as well as give them practice for the Summer Youth (SYI) Initiative Job Fair, which occurs each summer and is available to TeenQuest students.  

There are many reasons why local professionals should consider volunteering at these mock interviews. Here are a few: 

1. A chance to give back 

The power of volunteerism is stronger than people think. Statistics show that three-quarters of people who volunteer note that it improves their mental health, according to a study in the United Kingdom. It also gives professionals the chance to be part of a positive program in the community, which boosts their self-esteem and sense of purpose. 

2. To practice mentorship 

During mock interviews, volunteers can provide direct feedback to students in real-time. This allows professionals the chance to practice mentorship and develop those skills. 

3. Participating in talent development 

TeenQuest is part of the beginning of the talent pipeline in Genesee County. By volunteering at mock interviews, professionals become part of that pipeline by assisting the development of our future workforce. 

4. Networking 

As part of volunteering at mock interviews, professionals meet an array of students who just went through the TeenQuest program. Connecting with standout students may be useful when looking for future interns or employees.  

5. An opportunity to become a SYI partner employer 

A requirement of becoming a partner employer for SYI is participation in the mock interview process. SYI gives for-profit and non-profit employers the opportunity to hire TeenQuest students during the summer with some or all wages covered by the program. Volunteering gives your organization the chance to be part of that program. 

For more information and to volunteer for mock interviews, contact Dawn Bye at DBye@FlintandGenesee.org.