If you have managed to get a job interview you are half way there to getting the job, but there is still a lot of work to do:

Make sure you let the employer know that you are coming to the interview. Ask them if there is anything you need to bring.

Preparing  

  • Make sure you have read everything you have been sent. Also research the company/organisation on the internet.
  • Plan how you will answer the questions. Employers like to hear examples rather than just be told that you are good at something.
  • Check that you know how to get there – print out a map and look at the route. If possible, do a run-through of the journey so you know exactly where it is. On the day, allow extra time for unexpected problems.

Answering the questions  

  • Give honest answers but be tactful.
  • Try to let your enthusiasm come across so that the employer is clear that you are willing to work hard.
  • Some questions can be a bit confusing so ask if you do not understand something.
  • Look at the interviewer/s when they are talking and when you are responding to questions but don’t make them feel uneasy by staring.

Possible questions  

  • Tell me about yourself. Employers do not want to hear your life story! You could start with any voluntary/part time work you have done and say what you learnt.
  • Give me an example of a problem you had in your last job/at college/school and how you handled it.What would you do now that you didn’t do then? Employers want to be sure that you can learn from past mistakes.
  • What makes you the best person for this job or why have you applied for this job? This is your chance to give a few examples of past achievements and to explain how your experience/personality would benefit their company.