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Interview Skills

Introduction

Alumni: Higher Education

Career Development Skills

– Job Search and Skills

– Writing A CV

– Writing A Cover Letter

– Interview Skills

– Santander Academy: Free courses

Career Information Advice And Guidance

Digital Skills

Using Linkedin

Volunteering Opportunities

Preparing for your Interview

An interview is your chance to shine and show an employer why you’re the perfect fit for their role. It’s also your opportunity to determine if the job and company align with your goals. To make a great impression, it’s crucial to prepare thoroughly.

Know the Role

Read the job description and person specification carefully to understand what the employer is looking for. Identify key skills and experiences required for the role.

Know the Company

Visit the company’s website to learn about their products or services, future plans, and values. Understanding the company culture can help you tailor your responses.

Review Your CV

Familiarise yourself with your CV and cover letter. Think about potential questions based on the information you provided and be ready to discuss your experiences.

Use the STAR Method

Prepare a few examples that demonstrate your skills and experiences using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). This helps you structure your answers effectively.

Have Questions Ready

Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask at the end of the interview. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you learn more about the role and company.  When asked if you have any questions DO NOT ask when you can start; employers do not necessarily find this amusing.  You could ask about training opportunities while in post; advancement opportunities; what the 5 year plan for the company is; if successful why should I work here?

Dress to Impress: Look the Part

Choose an outfit that’s appropriate for the role and company culture. Comfort is key, but make sure you look professional.

Practice

Conduct mock interviews with friends, family, or a career advisor to build confidence and improve your responses.

Job Search and Skills

Check out our Job Search and Skills page to access skills development in strengths/areas for development, writing goals, 360 feedback, and reflection.

On the Day

Before the Interview

Ensure your phone is off and use breathing techniques to stay calm. Greet your interviewer with a smile and don’t hesitate to ask for water if needed.

Arrive in good time; if your interview is 12:00 aim to arrive at 11:45.  Check travel and traffic to ensure you are not late.

During the Interview

  • Match the Tone: Be polite and friendly, adjusting your tone to match the interviewer’s style.
  • Formulate Your Answers: Listen carefully to each question and take a moment to think before answering.
  • Clarify: If you don’t understand a question, ask for clarification.
  • Be Positive: Focus on what you’ve learned from past experiences, even challenging ones.
  • Stay Humble: Confidence is great, but avoid coming across as overconfident.
  • Express Gratitude: Thank the interviewer for their time and express your interest in the role.

If you’re offered the job, respond promptly. If you decide not to accept, decline politely. If you’re not offered the job, use it as a learning experience. Request feedback, reflect on what could be improved, and keep practicing.

Be a STAR

The STAR method helps you structure your responses by breaking down your experiences into four parts:

  • Situation: Describe the context.
  • Task: Explain the challenge or responsibility.
  • Action: Detail the steps you took.
  • Result: Share the outcome and what you learned.

Choose relevant and real examples to showcase your skills and accomplishments.

Telephone Interviews

Telephone interviews are often the first step in a multi-stage hiring process. Here’s how to prepare:

  • Plan Your Location: Choose a quiet room and ensure your phone is fully charged. Use headphones for better sound quality.
  • Take Notes: Have a pen and paper ready for notes and cue cards for common questions.
  • Address Issues: If you have trouble hearing, let the interviewer know. It’s better to restart the call than to miss key information.
  • Smile: Smiling can positively affect your tone and enthusiasm. Speak clearly and confidently.
  • Prepare Early: Start preparing at least 10 minutes before the interview. Take deep breaths to calm your nerves.

Video Interviews

With the rise of remote work, video interviews are becoming more common. Here’s how to ace them:

  • Choose Your Location: Ensure you have a quiet, well-lit room with a plain background.
  • Light It Up: Good lighting is crucial. Natural light or a lamp can help you look your best on camera.
  • Address Technical Issues: If you experience technical problems, inform the interviewer immediately and restart if necessary.
  • Use the Right Tech: Use a computer or laptop, and position your camera at eye level. Headphones can improve audio quality.
  • Test the Software: Familiarise yourself with the video platform. Know how to start and end the session, mute your microphone, turn off your camera, and share your screen if needed.

By following these tips and preparing thoroughly, you’ll be ready to impress in any interview format. Good luck!