Interview hints and tips

This section contains handy hints and tips on interview techniques, and what to think about before coming to an interview with us, or any other employer.

About the interview

If your application is successfully shortlisted, you will be called in for an interview, which generally involves a meeting between yourself and one or two people from the recruiting team (usually the service manager). A member of the HR team may also attend. 

The team will have a set of standard questions they will ask you and all other candidates, so you all get a fair opportunity to explain how you would be able to deliver the role. 

Make sure you answer the questions as fully as possible.

Don't be put off that the team are making notes - this is important so the team can consider all the applicants fairly after the interviews have taken place. 

Interview tests

At the interview you may be asked to take a test to demonstrate your skills and abilities. 

Motivation is critical so try to keep a positive attitude throughout a test.

Here are some handy tips on how to approach psychometric assessments and aptitude tests:

• Keep calm and read instructions carefully - don't skim read any instructions. It is important to be clear about how to answer the questions.
• Always complete the practice questions at the start of any assessment - ask your test administrator to clarify anything you don't understand before you start the test.
• Don't spend too long on a single question - you can always go back to it at the end.
• Always check that the question number being completed matches the one on the answer sheet.
• When attempting difficult multiple-choice questions start by ruling out those that are most unlikely to be correct.
• If you change an answer make sure that it is clear. If in doubt give your best estimate.
• If you finish early go back and review your answers.

Questions to ask the interviewer

Don't forget - the interview is a two-way process.

The person interviewing you will want to find out whether you are suitable to the position, and you will also want to find out if the organisation and position are right for you.

You need to ensure you have enough information to make up your mind whether or not you want the job, so you will need to have some questions in mind to ask them.

There are a few examples below, however, you should think carefully about the things you need to know about the position you are applying for:

• What will be my main responsibilities?
• Where does this position fit into the overall organisational structure?
• Who will report directly to me?
• What specific projects will I be working on in the first six months?
• What is your commitment to training and development?
• When will you decide on the appointment?
• What is the next step?

And last, but not least - good luck!