For candidates
Interview tips
Good preparation makes interviews less stressful. Here's how to get ready, whether you're meeting in person, by phone or on video.
Do your research
- Read the job description again and note the key skills.
- Look at the employer's website to understand what they do.
- Check the interview format, who you'll meet and how long it will take.
- Plan your journey, or test your video link the day before.
Questions to prepare for
For "tell me about a time" questions, use the STAR approach: describe the Situation, the Task, the Action you took and the Result.
- Tell me about yourself.
- Why do you want this role?
- What do you know about our organisation?
- Tell me about a time you solved a problem.
- What are your strengths, and what are you working on?
Video interview tips
- Use a quiet room with a plain background and good light.
- Put your camera at eye level and look at the lens when you speak.
- Close other apps and turn off notifications.
- Have a phone number ready in case the connection drops.
On the day
- Arrive or log in 10 minutes early.
- Bring a copy of your CV and any documents you've been asked for.
- Listen carefully and take a moment before you answer.
- Be yourself. Employers want to know how you'd fit in.
Questions you could ask
- What would a typical day or week look like?
- How will success be measured in the first few months?
- How does the team work together?
- What are the next steps in the process?
Bring your right to work documents
UK employers must check that you have the right to work in the UK. You may be asked to bring your passport or share a Home Office share code.