In my last blog, I talked about two major points to consider if you want to be a youth minister. Of course, experience and a call from the Lord don’t automatically equal a job. There are still many other practical steps you will need to take to do your best to land the job.

1. Resume

Your resume should be clean, clear, and should highlight both your youth ministry experiences and your education. Do not leave gaps in the timeline of your resume, especially if you have been out of school for a while.

2. Research

If you have an interview scheduled, prepare for that particular location. Check out the parish website, and read the bulletin. Do your research on this parish and the specific role this position fills. Review the job description, and note how your experience matches up to what the parish is looking for. You might also take a look at what the diocesan expectations of youth ministry are and the sort of events, training opportunities, and support the diocese offers.

3. Practice

Unless you are a very good interviewee, set up a practice interview of sorts. Call someone you know who is a youth ministry expert to talk about what sort of questions might come up and to talk about your answers. This is not to create perfect or polished answers, but to start thinking about what questions may come up. This will also allow you to be able to practice articulating your thoughts about youth ministry.

4. Prepare

Prepare a two or three questions that you can ask at the end of the interview. These questions should not be about salary or benefits, but should be focused on youth ministry at that particular parish. If you are offered the job, there will be time to get answers to those other questions. At the end of an interview, you will usually be asked if you have any questions.

5. Dress

Youth ministers might not wear suits to the office, but this does not mean you can wear jeans to the interview. Dress up and look professional. Your dress and appearance will have an impact on the interview committee.

6. Interview

During the interview you will want to be able to speak with confidence as you answer questions thoroughly. Although your vision for youth ministry may not be what the parish currently has, do not talk condescendingly about their program or parish. Be positive as you share with the interview committee.

7. Phone Interview

Be prepared that your first interview may be over the phone. You should take this interview seriously. Many places use phone interviews for the first round, before they do face to face interviews. These also can happen because of distance between your location and theirs. Be conscience that the only way you are making an impression during these types of interview is with your voice; you need to be upbeat and energetic.

8. Video Interview

If you are doing a video interview, pay attention to the background of what your camera is picking up. Be sure to get rid of background distractions that may be picked up during the video interview. As mentioned above, be sure that you dress appropriately for this interview.

9. Pray

Finally, pray. Ask the Lord to help you know where to apply. Pray for peace and inspiration for your interviews. Trust in the Lord’s plan for your life.

To see current job openings check out catholicyouthministry.com/jobs.