Preparation is key to a successful interview. For many people, interviews can be daunting. With the right preparation and support, you can feel confident and prepared.
Types of Interviews
An interview process can vary from a casual chat to others being carried our more formally. Interviews can be in person, online or a telephone interview. It’s common practice when an applicant is notified of an interview, that they are informed of the process and what to expect.
Before your interview
You should research the company and take note of:
- the company's website
- their core business activity
- their goals and targets
- clients they work with
This will prepare you for the interview and answer questions relevant to the company.
It's useful to think of examples to plan and rehearse answers to what they can ask you about your:
- past experiences
- ability to do the job
- transferable skills
- knowledge of the organisation
- future career plans
Interview questions
There are different types of interview questions. A style that’s often used is competency based questions. This is when interviewers ask you to give a specific example of when you demonstrated particular skills.
The STAR technique can help you prepare confident answers. Find further information on
the STAR method on National Careers Service.
Find more information on how to prepare for an interview and examples of questions you may be asked on:
Questions you can ask
Your interview is also opportunity for you to find out more information about the role and ask questions.
You should focus your questions on training opportunities and how performance is measured, for example, appraisals and catch up meetings with your line manager. Avoid questions about salary or benefits and show a genuine interest in the company.
After your interview
Follow-up with the employer to ask for feedback on your interview, even if you got the job. Feedback helps develop your skills for future interviews.
You can book an interview preparation session with the Career Guidance team. This can focus on general interview preparation or can be a formal mock interview specific to the role you’ll be interviewed for.
Book an appointment with Careers Guidance
gov.je