Interviews

An interview invitation means the employer already likes what they know about you. Preparation is key to making a good first impression!

How can you prepare?

Refresh your memory. Read the job description. Review your application and/or CV.

Research the organisation. Know the company's competitors and about the sector it operates in. Read newspapers and relevant journals for recent developments and current affairs.

Practice! Book a 45 minute practice interview appointment at the Careers Service by calling our office on 01224 273601.  Once booked, provide us with your application and details about the interview and we will give you feedback on your practice answers.  It can also be helpful to ask friends or family to ask you questions.

What will they ask me?

Interviewers will ask questions that seek evidence of qualities and skills that match certain criteria. Use examples from your experiences; taking your time and addressing all questions as best you can.

You may be invited to ask questions at the end - prepare a few relevant / informed questions beforehand. Only ask if the information is not already available or provided. Avoid questions about salary and benefits.

On the day checklist

  • Don't be late – allow for delays and time to relax.
  • First impressions last – see Dress to Impress article in our Careers Handbook.
  • Maintain eye contact and act professionally.
  • Listen carefully and think before you answer.
  • If you don't understand a question, ask!
  • Be positive and enthusiastic.
  • Be friendly with everyone and thank the employer for seeing you.

 Afterwards

  • Take time to reflect on your experience and learn from it.
  • You can contact the organisation and request feedback on your performance.
  • If you're unsuccessful, dust yourself off and try, try, try again!

Dress to Impress

You can see images of successful dressing for interview from the links below:

Dress to impress (women)

Dress to impress (men)

 

Been for an interview?  Tell us about it!

If you've just had an interview, gone through a psychometric test or experienced an assessment centre, survived the experience and bought the t-shirt, we'd love to know how it went!  Download and complete the form below, then hand it in to us.

Selection feedback form

Our virtual library contains a wide range of up to date and recommended materials to help you further in your career-related activities.  This section allows you to link to the resources we have available on preparing for interviews.

Further guidelines on preparing for interviews

Link to Interview Tips Gallery (for law)