In the Days Leading Up to Your Interview

• Read the job advertisement and position description again. Make a list of the key skills, experience and attributes the employer is seeking, then identify examples demonstrating where you have used them.
• Research the organisation, including its services, customers, industry, values and current priorities.
• Prepare a short professional introduction for common opening questions such as “Tell me about yourself.”
• Prepare two to four strong examples from your experience for behavioural interview questions such as “Tell me about a time when…” or “Give me an example of…”
• Consider using the STAR method – Situation, Task, Action and Result – to keep behavioural examples structured and easy to follow.
• Prepare five or six thoughtful questions you could ask the interviewer or panel about the position, team, organisation and expectations.
• Research appropriate salary ranges for the type and level of role if salary is likely to be discussed.
• Confirm that your referees are happy to be contacted and check that their phone numbers, email addresses and employment details are current.

Before You Go to the Interview

Make sure you are appropriately dressed for the organisation and position you’re interviewing for.

Feeling comfortable and professionally presented can help you focus your attention on the interview rather than worrying about your appearance.

Consider taking:

• A copy of your resume, particularly if the employer has asked you to bring one.
• Your referee details if required.
• A notepad and pen for relevant notes.
• A copy of the job advertisement or position description.
• Directions and contact details for the interview location.

For an online or video interview, test your camera, microphone and internet connection beforehand and make sure you have a quiet, professional place to participate.

When You Arrive for Your Interview

• Aim to arrive around 10 minutes before the scheduled interview time.
• Review your prepared notes and key examples before entering.
• Check your appearance and switch your mobile phone to silent.
• Introduce yourself professionally to reception or the person greeting you.
• Greet your interviewer or panel professionally.
• Smile, maintain appropriate eye contact and listen carefully as the interview begins.

Remember: being invited to an interview means the employer has already identified something in your application that they want to explore further.

During Your Interview

• Listen carefully to each question before responding.
• Stay focused on what has actually been asked rather than trying to deliver a rehearsed answer.
• Use relevant examples to demonstrate your experience rather than simply saying you possess a particular skill.
• Where appropriate, explain the situation, what you personally did and what result you achieved.
• Take a moment to organise your thoughts if you need to. You do not have to answer every question instantly.
• If you do not understand a question, politely ask the interviewer to repeat or clarify it.
• Keep your answers focused and avoid going too far off topic.
• Remember that the interview is also your opportunity to learn more about the organisation and determine whether the position is right for you.
• When invited, ask the questions you prepared beforehand.
• At the conclusion of the interview, thank the interviewer or panel for their time.
• Ask about the next stage of the recruitment process if this has not already been explained.