Prepare with confidence.
Interviews can take different forms, including face-to-face, panel, telephone, video interviews and assessment centres. You may also have more than one stage as part of the recruitment process.
Preparing for an interview
- Read the job description and person specification and identify the skills and experience the employer is looking for.
- Research the organisation and role.
- Think of examples that demonstrate your skills and experience.
- Prepare a few questions you’d like to ask.
- Check the interview format, location or technology in advance.
- Have any notes or information you may need to hand.
It’s normal to feel nervous. Take some time to breathe, prepare and focus on what you can bring to the conversation. During the interview, listen carefully, take your time answering and communicate in a way that feels natural to you.
Strengths-based interviews
Some employers use strengths-based interviews to explore what you enjoy, what motivates you and where your strengths lie.
Questions might include:
- What are you good at?
- What do you enjoy learning?
- What motivates you?
- What achievement are you most proud of?
- What types of tasks do you enjoy?
- What strengths would you bring to this role?
There aren’t necessarily right or wrong answers. Be honest and use examples where helpful. Think about what you enjoy and where you feel you work at your best.
Use the STAR approach
For questions about your skills or experience, the STAR approach can help you structure your answer:
Situation: What was the context?
Task: What did you need to do?
Action: What did you do and which skills did you use?
Result: What happened and what did you learn?
You don’t need to memorise answers. Preparing a few examples can help you feel more confident and communicate your experience clearly.
Need More Help?
Visit StudentHub and click on ‘Appointments’ to book a mock interview or ‘Career Tools; for interview resources
