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Research the employer
Take time to learn about the organisation, the role and what the employer is looking for.
Read the job description and person specification carefully. Visit the employer's website and familiarise yourself with their services, values and recent news.
Prepare your answers
Think about the skills and experience you want to highlight.
Interviewers often ask questions such as:
- Tell us about yourself
- Why do you want to work for us?
- What are your strengths?
- Tell us about a challenge you have faced and how you dealt with it
- Why should we offer you this role?
Many employers use competency-based questions. These ask you to give examples of when you have used a particular skill, such as teamwork, communication or problem-solving.
A useful way to structure your answers is the STAR method:
- Situation – What was the situation?
- Task – What needed to be done?
- Action – What did you do?
- Result – What was the outcome?
Practice
Practising your answers can help build confidence and reduce nerves.
Try a mock interview with a friend, family member, careers adviser or employment coach.
Prepare questions to ask
Most employers will ask if you have any questions.
You could ask:
- What would a typical day look like in this role?
- Who would I work with most closely?
- What training and development opportunities are available?
- What are the next steps in the recruitment process?
Need additional support?
If you need adjustments during the interview process, you can ask the employer about reasonable adjustments.
This could include extra time for assessments, accessibility requirements or alternative interview arrangements. Sharing this information is your choice.
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Arrive prepared
- Confirm the interview date, time and location
- Plan your journey in advance
- Aim to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early
- For online interviews, test your technology beforehand
Make a positive first impression
- Dress appropriately for the role
- Be polite and professional
- Maintain eye contact where comfortable
- Listen carefully to each question
- Speak clearly and take your time
Remember, employers want you to do well. It's normal to feel nervous.
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3
Take a moment to reflect on what went well and what you could improve for next time.
If appropriate, send a short thank you email to the interviewer to thank them for their time and confirm your continued interest in the role.
Interviews can feel daunting, but preparation can make all the difference. An interview is your opportunity to show an employer why you're right for the role.
Use our step-by-step guide to get ready for your interview, make a strong impression and give yourself the best chance of success.
One-to-one interviews
A traditional interview with one interviewer.
Panel Interviews
An interview with two or more interviewers. Take your time and try to engage with everyone on the panel.
Phone and video interviews
Often used as an initial screening stage. Find a quiet space and make sure your device and internet connection are working.
Assessment or practical test
You may be asked to complete a task that reflects the role, such as a written exercise, presentation or practical assessment.
Group task
Some employers assess candidates in groups to see how they communicate, work with others and contribute ideas. Listen to others, participate positively and show respect for different viewpoints.