St Genevieves

Interview Tips

The Careers Education programme in 6th Form involves preparation for interview and practice in interview techniques.

Interview Tips

At this stage in your career, you will find yourself attending for interviews, whether it is for a work placement, a university place, a part-time or even full-time job. Below are some tips to help you.

Remember that in an interview you've only got a short space of time to really sell yourself - you've got to convince a stranger that you are capable, confident, hard-working, and that you deserve a place on that course or that you are the best person for the job!

Before the interview

Find out as much as possible about the course, company or educational establishment; read any brochures and their website thoroughly; understand the role you are applying for or what is entailed in the course. You will also feel more confident about the interview and able to answer any questions that a course tutor or prospective employer may ask. Write down your reasons for choosing the college / place of work and reasons why you want to do the course or get the job: this will help you to remember them on the day.

 Think about the examples you will use to demonstrate your experience and skills; think of your achievements and any challenges you may have overcome. Extracurricular and work experience examples often work particularly well.

 Talk to your careers teacher, they should be able to offer advice on completing your application form, give you a practice interview and offer other guidance.

 Print off a copy of your application form and read through it prior to your interview.

 Have what you are going to wear planned out and hung up the night before so you aren't left searching frantically before you're due to leave.

 Dress smart - an impression is formed of you in the first 10 seconds you walk in through the door.

 Know where your interview is and how to get there.

 Save a contact number for the college in your phone or write it down, then, if the worst comes to the worst and you think you may arrive late, you will be able to contact the college and let them know.

 Practise your journey to the college / place of work– you will be less nervous on the day and know exactly how long it will take to get there.

 Prepare –Never be late, but don't be too early either. 15 minutes before you are due to be interviewed is ideal and gives you time to compose yourself.

 Put your mobile on silent or turn it off. Even the sound of your phone vibrating in your bag or pocket will put you and the interviewer off.

During the interview

 Make eye contact, relax and smile.

 Shake hands firmly and greet them with a clear ‘Good morning, Good afternoon or Good Evening’.

 Sit up straight.

 If you are offered a glass of water, take it. It will allow you to pause and you'll find when you're talking a lot your mouth does get dry.

 Talk slowly or you'll find yourself making silly mistakes or missing vital points.

 Show an interest in the people you are meeting.

 Be genuine

 Think about questions you might want to ask the interviewer. An interview is a two-way process and this is an opportunity for you to find out as much about the course / place / job as possible.

 Speak clearly throughout and listen carefully to the interviewer. When answering a question take your time to think about your answer and avoid yes or no answers.

 Expect the expected! In other words, in the interview you will be discussing several issues about yourself. These areas include your interests, your skills, your education, your experience, your attitude, your strengths and weaknesses and also your career goals (5-year/10-year). If you are prepared, you can take charge and guide the conversation.

 Thank the interviewer(s) and remain positive.

 Remember that interviewing is a skill and can be learned. Understand that if you do not get the job that it's okay and learn from the experience. Rejection is a very real part of a job search and in many ways teaches persistence.

Good Luck!