An interview can feel scary. Almost everyone feels nervous before one. The good news is that preparation makes a big difference. This guide gives you a simple plan to feel ready and calm.
What is an interview for?
An employer wants to know three things:
- Can you do the job?
- Will you work well with the team?
- Do you really want this job?
You do not need to be perfect. You need to be prepared, honest and polite.
Step 1: Research the company
Before the interview, spend some time learning about the company:
- What do they do?
- Who are their customers?
- What are their values?
- What is new on their website or social media?
Then think: "Why do I want to work here?" Have a clear, honest answer.
Step 2: Read the job advert again
Look at the skills and tasks in the advert. For each one, think of an example from your life that shows you can do it. Use work, study, volunteering or daily life.
Step 3: Practise common questions
These questions appear in many interviews:
- "Tell me about yourself."
- "Why do you want this job?"
- "What are your strengths?"
- "What is your weakness?"
- "Tell me about a time you worked in a team."
- "Tell me about a time you solved a problem."
- "Where do you see yourself in the future?"
Practise your answers out loud. Do it alone, in front of a mirror, or with a friend. Do not learn every word by heart. Learn the main ideas.
Use the STAR method
Many UK interviewers like answers with a clear story. The STAR method helps:
- S – Situation: What was the situation?
- T – Task: What did you need to do?
- A – Action: What did you do?
- R – Result: What happened in the end?
Example: "In my group project, one member left (Situation). I needed to finish the work on time (Task). I shared the extra tasks and made a simple plan (Action). We finished on time and got a good result (Result)."
Weakness question
Do not say "I have no weakness." Be honest, but choose something small that you are working on. Then explain what you do to improve.
Example: "I used to feel nervous speaking in groups. I now practise by joining discussions, and it is getting easier."
What to wear
Dress neatly and comfortably. For many jobs, smart and clean clothes are a good choice. For a cafe or shop, neat casual may be fine. If you are not sure, you can ask the employer or look at photos of staff on their website.
On the day
- Plan your journey and leave early. Aim to arrive about ten minutes before the time.
- If you will be late, call or message as soon as you can.
- Bring a copy of your CV, a pen and a notebook.
- Switch your phone to silent.
- Smile, say hello and shake hands if they offer.
- Listen carefully and take a moment before you answer.
Online interviews
- Check your internet, camera and microphone before.
- Sit in a quiet, bright place with a simple background.
- Look at the camera when you speak.
- Dress as you would for an in-person interview.
Ask questions at the end
Usually the interviewer asks, "Do you have any questions for us?" Say yes. Good questions are:
- "What does a normal day look like in this job?"
- "What training is offered?"
- "What are the next steps?"
Do not ask about money or holidays first, unless they raise it.
After the interview
Send a short thank-you email if it feels right. Say thanks for their time and that you are happy about the chance. If you do not hear back after the time they gave, you can politely ask for an update.
If you do not get the job, ask kindly for feedback. Every interview is practice for the next one.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not researching the company
- Speaking badly about a past employer
- Giving very short answers like only "yes" or "no"
- Lying about skills or experience
- Looking at your phone
Frequently asked questions
What if I do not understand a question? It is fine to say, "Sorry, could you repeat that?" or "Could you explain that a little more?"
What if my English is not perfect? Speak slowly and clearly. Most interviewers are patient. Practising before the interview helps a lot.
Is it okay to take notes? Yes, usually. It shows you are interested.
What if I feel very nervous? Take a slow breath before you answer. Nerves are normal, and interviewers know that.
Useful links
- National Careers Service (interview advice)
- GOV.UK (finding a job)
- Your university careers service
- Citizens Advice (your rights at work)
