So you’ve managed to secure an interview, congratulations! Whether it’s for a part-time job, or the first step to your graduate profession, interviews can be a daunting experience. The Careers Team at Edge Hill are here to help and support you through University and beyond, offering advice and guidance up to three years after graduation.
Emilia’s experience
Emilia, a third year Education and English student, sought help and advice from the Careers Team, as well as utilising the interview clothing collection to help her to feel prepared for her most recent interview. Emilia shares some of her top interview tips:
1
Just take a deep breath. You want to be comfortable in your surroundings before you begin talking.
2
Make sure your clothes fit and are comfortable. I could have worn my shoes in a little more. I didn’t appreciate the blisters the day after.
3
Learn as much as you can about the company or institution you are interviewing for. Showing that you’ve done your research and are knowledgeable may help you feel more confident.
4
Arrive early. This allows you to become familiar with the place and also shows you are prepared.
5
Make sure to ask questions – maybe prepare a few before you go.
6
Just keep smiling. You may feel uncomfortable or nervous but fake it until you make it. You will soon feel more settled.
7
If you are requested to do a practical task (I had to teach a mock lesson for my PGCE interview) take this as an opportunity to show off your skills but remember they will not expect you to be perfect, especially if you’re going for a graduate or training role.
8
Although they may ask you about challenges you have faced, try and be positive about them – what did this allow you to learn?
9
Just show you are enthusiastic about the role. Show how much you want this job (and how well suited you are for it).
10
Remember no matter how it goes you can always take something away from your interview . It is great experience and it will help build your confidence in your field.
Get more help from the Careers Team and find out more about the interview clothing collection:
Careers Interview Clothing CollectionMarch 7, 2023
