A good place to start is to research the employer. Find out a little more about them and make some notes. Having a greater knowledge of their work shows your interest in the role.
The job advert should name the key attributes needed. Read over these and take notes on how you meet all of them. Reading your notes before the interview, will help you express why you are the best candidate for the role. If the required skills aren't given in the job advert, you can request them from the employer.
Use the internet to search for common interview questions. Think about what your answers might be, focusing on real examples that show your strengths. Use the STAR method to answer questions: situation, task, action and result. Always consider how you improved or learned something. Include this as part of your answer. Again, you can take notes on your answers to help you before and during the interview.
Body language is crucial to appear positive and engaged. Listen with care to the questions and respond clearly. Remember, interviews are a two-way process. There will be a chance to ask your own questions about both the role and the company. This will show your interest and help you judge if the job is right for you. Think about the questions you would like to ask in advance. Write them down in your notes.
If you disclose a disability or mental health condition of any kind, you may ask for changes to the interview process. These are known as ‘reasonable adjustments’. Some of these might include
- asking for the questions in advance
- asking for written versions of the questions in front of you during the interview
- asking to meet the interviewers before the interview
- accessibility requirements around physical disabilities
People often say that you cannot take notes into your interview. This isn’t true. All candidates are welcome to do so, in a notebook, or folded in your pocket. You may not need these notes but just having them is a huge reassurance.
By practicing, preparing and staying composed, you’ll be able to make a lasting impression.