Tests
You may be asked to take a test on the day of the interview. It might be an aptitude test, or a practical test relevant to the type of work.
An interview is your chance to demonstrate to the employer that you are the best person for the job. If you have been offered an interview, you have already succeeded at the first stage.
Allow yourself time to prepare for your interview. Remember, in the modern workplace, you could have a telephone or video interview – be ready.
Check out our examples of interview questions and tips on interview technique.
Types of interviews
There are various ways of having an interview. Some can be a casual chat, others may be formal.
The number of interviewers can range from 1 person to a panel of up to 8 people. You may have a series of interviews with different people, possibly all on the same day.
Stay calm and remember they are interviewing you because they liked your application or CV.
Important things to take with you on interview day can include:
Tips & techniques for interviews
Dress for the job you want – make sure you are smart and presentable. First impressions count!
Research the company and industry. Check their website and social media for up-to-date information.
Practice your answers and showcase your best skills and abilities.
Give them a example of a time you used the skills you’ve mentioned:
“While I was studying at Bridgend College, I used my communication & team work skills every day with my fellow students, creating and discussing a project”
Know your strengths and weaknesses
Plan your journey
Read all the information you have been sent
Practice your interview style
Manage your nerves
Be confident, polite, and clear – build a rapport
Remember that your body language, voice and appearance is how you communicate
The questions – relate your skills to the job (Situation, Task, Action, Result)
Be positive about any gaps in experience or weaknesses – explain how you can fill these gaps with transferable skills etc.
Have a question to ask at the end.
Common interview questions
Here are some common interview questions for you to practice:
Describe a situation in which you led a team.
How do you maintain good working relationships with your colleagues?
Tell me about a big decision you’ve made recently. How did you go about it?
What has been your biggest achievement to date?
Describe a project where you had to use different leadership styles to reach your goal.
Tell me about a time when your communication skills improved a situation.
Give me an example of a challenge you faced in the workplace and tell me how you overcame it.
Give an example of a situation where you solved a problem in a creative way.
Describe a situation where you were asked to do something that you had never attempted previously.
Tell me about a time when you achieved success even when the odds were stacked against you.
What interviewers are looking for
10%
Job Qualifications
40%
Attitude
40%
25%
Appearance
25%
Communication Skills
25%
The lovely Charlotte from our Public Services course has only gone and secured herself an interview to study Paramedic Science at University!
We completed some interview preparation work this morning and she now feels ready & confident to smash it!
Contact Us
We aim to help you explore career opportunities to achieve, progress and gain meaningful paid employment.
Have any questions or need more information?
Fill in the form or call the team:
01656 302 302