How to have a good interview

Good preparation helps you to give a good account of yourself at interview and optimises your chances of convincing the employer that you are the best person available to join their team.

Self-appraise

• Your strengths and achievements.
• Your career aspirations.
• Your career to date.
• What you have to offer this particular job and employer.
• How to reassure about shortcomings that exist.

Research

• People you will be meeting and their priorities.
• How the interview will be conducted.
• Work environment and what does it take to fit in and succeed?
• Job responsibilities and transferability of your skills.
• How can the job be developed?

Ask questions

• Draw up a list of questions you may be asked.
• Decide on message(s) you want to deliver within your answers.
• Think through each anticipated question and ponder good answers.
• Build practical examples into answers being developed.
• Keep returning to how you can do the job well.

Rehearse

• Mock interviewing is the most effective way of rounding off preparation but in advance, not at the last minute.
• Practice at home with family or a friend.
• Keep everything formal and don’t break out of role-playing.
• Video or audio-record if possible.

Other Tips

For more helpful information to support your job search, see our Job Seeking Tips.