Be prepared for a successful interview

Do you have the skills for a good interview? It is important to be ready and prepared to be confident. Remember, the interviewer is hoping that you will have the experience and qualities that are sought.

Top tips

  1. Be confident.
  2. Prepare.
  3. Ask for advice.

Preparing for the Interview

  • give yourself plenty of time to get ready.
  • find out all you can about the job and the company.
  • check the time, date and place of the interview.
  • find out how to get there, check parking, public transport and so on.
  • practise answering questions – use a friend, partner, tape recorder or similar.
  • think of answering questions you might be asked (….and the answers!).
  • re-read your application form to remind yourself of what you have told the employer.
  • get together any information that has been requested, e.g. proof of ID, certificates etc.
  • dress smartly but comfortably.
  • take the company phone number in case things go wrong and you are delayed.
  • visualise yourself in the interview, performing well.

Factsheet

Download our full factsheet here.

What are Employers Looking For?

Employers are looking for people who:

  • work on their own initiative.
  • work well as part of a team.
  • have an understanding of the section they are going into, for example, housing.
  • have a real enthusiasm for getting the job.

Employers also like to hear instances of how you can:

  • make savings, e.g. costs, time and resources.
  • avoid potential problems and reduce risks.
  • improve appearance.
  • organise work and meet deadlines easily.
  • increase productivity / efficiency.
  • use old things in a new way.
  • provide more information.
  • get government support.
  • develop employee performance.
  • turn round a bad situation.
  • introduce new systems.
  • improve teamwork and relationships.

Remember…

…the interviewer is hoping that you will have the experience and qualities which are sought. Most importantly, tell the panel what you as an individual have done successfully, not what you did as part of a team – your contribution could have been tiny. Talk about I, not we.