Use this guide once you have an interview date for a job. Have the job advert, person specification, your CV or application and the interview details, including format and who you will meet, ready.
Step by step
Study the job and the organisation
Read the job advert and person specification line by line and highlight the key skills they want. Look at the organisation's website, recent news and values. Think about why you want this particular role.
Match your experience to the role
For each key requirement, note one or two examples from your work, study or volunteering that show you can do it. Check your CV so you can talk about every point on it. Be ready to explain any gaps honestly and briefly.
Prepare examples with STAR
Structure answers using Situation, Task, Action and Result. Focus on what you did and the outcome, using real figures only if you know them to be accurate. Practise saying them out loud so they sound natural, not memorised.
Plan your questions
Prepare two or three questions about the role, team, training or what success looks like in the first months. Avoid asking only about pay and holidays at first-round interviews unless they raise it. Good questions show genuine interest.
Sort the practical details
Plan your route and aim to arrive ten minutes early, or test your camera, microphone and connection for a video interview. Choose clothes suitable for the workplace. Bring any documents requested, such as proof of your right to work.
Follow up afterwards
Send a short thank-you email within a day, mentioning something you discussed. Note the questions you were asked while fresh. If unsuccessful, politely ask for feedback to help with your next interview.
Ready-to-use checklist
- Job advert and specification highlighted
- Organisation researched
- Examples matched to requirements
- STAR answers practised aloud
- Questions for the panel written
- Route or video setup tested
- Documents requested are ready
- Thank-you email planned
Practical tips
- Practise with a friend or record yourself to spot filler words and rushed answers.
- If you need adjustments for the interview because of a disability, ask the employer in advance.
- Keep a notebook with key points to glance at before you go in.
Common problems
My mind goes blank when asked a question.
It is fine to pause, take a breath or ask them to repeat the question. Having a few well-practised examples means you can adapt one to many questions.
I was asked about my weaknesses.
Choose a real but manageable area you are working on and explain the steps you are taking to improve. Keep it short and end on the positive action.
I have a gap in my CV and worry about being asked.
Give a short, honest explanation and move on to what you learned or how you are ready now. You do not need to share private medical details.