Good interview preparation is mostly about being clear: clear about the role, clear about your experience, and clear about why you want the job.

Learn the basics about the company

Read the company's website and recent updates. Know what they do, who they serve and how the role fits in.

Match your experience to the role

Read the job description and pick two or three examples from your work that show the relevant skills. Practise describing each in a minute or two: the situation, what you did and the result.

Prepare your own questions

Interviews run both ways. Prepare a few questions about the team, the work and what success looks like in the role.

Sort out the practical details

  • Confirm the time, place or video link
  • Plan your journey or test your connection
  • Keep a copy of your CV and a notebook to hand

Practise out loud

Reading your answers in your head is not the same as saying them. Practise a few key answers aloud, ideally with a friend or by recording yourself. You will notice where you ramble and where you can be clearer.

Common questions to be ready for

  • Tell me about yourself and your recent experience
  • Why are you interested in this role and this company?
  • Describe a challenge you handled and what you learned
  • What are you looking for in your next role?

On the day

Arrive early, or log in a few minutes ahead of time for a video call. Listen carefully to each question, take a moment to think and answer the question that was asked. It is fine to ask for clarification.

After the interview

Send a short thank-you message to your contact. It is a courteous touch and a chance to restate your interest. Then note down what went well and what you would change, so each interview makes the next one easier.

Prepare stories, not scripts

A simple structure helps you answer questions about your experience: the situation you faced, the task you were responsible for, the action you took and the result. For example, if you are asked about handling a tight deadline, describe what the deadline was, what you prioritised, how you coordinated with others and what was delivered.

Prepare three or four of these stories covering teamwork, a problem you solved, something you learned from a mistake and an achievement you are proud of. You can adapt them to many different questions.

Managing nerves

Some nervousness is normal and can even sharpen your focus. Slow your breathing before you go in, arrive a little early so you are not rushing, and remember that the interviewer wants to find a good candidate and is usually hoping you will do well.