Preparing for a job interview
This page explains what to expect and how to approach interviews with confidence.
Interviews are a common aspect of recruitment and can be prepared for despite their high-pressure nature. Use this chance to showcase your motivation, skills, and experience relevant to the job.
Preparing for a job interview
Following these tips to help you prepare for your next job interview.
Preparation helps you feel more confident and in control. Before the interview, you should:
- Research the organisation, including what they do and who they work with.
- Re-read the job description and person specification.
- Identify examples from your experience that show relevant skills.
- Plan what you will wear and how you will travel or log in.
Being prepared allows you to focus on your answers rather than the logistics.
Most interviews include a mix of question types.
You are likely to be asked:
- Competency questions about your experience.
- Situational questions about how you would handle a scenario.
- Motivation questions about why you want the role or organisation.
Using a clear structure, such as STAR (situation, task, action, result), can help you give focused and relevant answers.
Interviews are a two-way conversation.
On the day:
- Listen carefully to each question before answering.
- Take a moment to think if you need to.
- Use clear examples rather than general statements.
- Ask for clarification if a question is unclear.
Interviewers are interested in how you think, not just what you say.
Once the interview is over, it’s helpful to reflect.
Afterwards, you can:
- Send a short, professional thank-you message.
- Note which questions went well and which felt more challenging.
- Use feedback, if provided, to improve future interviews.
Each interview is a learning opportunity, regardless of the outcome.
Practice before the real thing
Practising interviews in advance can significantly reduce anxiety.
Key tips include:
- You can book a mock interview session to practise answering questions and receive constructive feedback.
- Bring the job description and any information about the interview format.
- Sessions focus on helping you improve clarity, structure and confidence.
If you are unsure where to start, Career Connect includes a How to write a CV or application course, which guides you through each stage of the process.
Help with interview clothes
If you are concerned about what to wear to an interview, certain charities provide free professional clothing and support.
Smart Works supports women by providing professional interview clothing and confidence-building support to help them succeed at interviews and secure employment.
Dress for Success empowers women entering the workplace by offering professional clothing, styling advice, interview coaching and ongoing career support.
Suited & Booted works with public agencies to support men who are unemployed or on low incomes. They provide suitable interview clothing, as well as interview advice and mentoring, to help clients prepare for employment.
Need support?
Contact the Careers team at careers@rcl.ac.uk.
