Getting invited to a job interview is an exciting step in your job search
Getting an interview means an employer sees potential in your application and wants to learn more about you.
It's normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves, but preparing ahead of time can help you feel more confident and ready to succeed.
Here are some practical tips to help you prepare, answer questions with confidence and make a great impression.
How to prepare
The more prepared you are for your interview, the less nervous you'll be. Preparation can also help you feel more confident discussing your skills, experience and suitability for the role.
Before your interview:
- Research the employer. Visit their website and social media channels to learn more about what they do, their values and the services or products they provide.
- Prepare your answers. Think about how you might respond to common interview questions and have examples ready to share.
- Plan what to wear. Choose clothing that is neat, professional and appropriate for the workplace.
- Practise speaking about yourself. Talk through your experience, strengths and achievements with a friend, family member or in front of a mirror.
- Have any required documents ready. This may include your resume, licences, certificates or other paperwork.
- Plan your journey. Check your route, transport options and travel time so you can arrive a little early.
- Prepare questions to ask. Interviews are also your opportunity to learn more about the role and workplace.
Need a hand getting ready?
Remember yourtown is here to help. If you're a yourtown member and need support preparing for an interview, appropriate interview clothing or help with transport costs, speak with your Job Coach or Youth Worker.
Phone and video interviews
For phone interviews:
- answer the call professionally
- make sure your voicemail is set up and has a professional greeting
- find a quiet place where you can focus on the conversation
- keep a copy of your resume and the job advertisement nearby
- take notes if needed
- speak clearly and take your time answering questions.
💡 Tip
For video interviews:
- test your technology, camera and microphone beforehand
- ensure your internet connection is reliable
- choose a quiet, well-lit space with a neutral background
- dress as you would for an in-person interview
- maintain eye contact by looking at the camera when speaking
- join the meeting a few minutes early
Interview questions
It definitely helps to think about some questions you might be asked, and prepare your answers.
It can even help to say your answers out loud or even film yourself with a phone to see how you’re coming across.
Common interview questions and how to answer them
Tell me about yourself
What the employer is really asking: They want to learn about you, your background and why you're a good fit for the role.
Tip: Focus on your education, work experience, skills, interests and career goals. Keep your answer relevant to the job and aim for 1 to 2 minutes.
Example: "I'm currently studying Year 12 and working part-time in retail. Through my studies and work experience, I've developed strong customer service and communication skills. I'm looking for an opportunity where I can continue building my experience while contributing positively to a team."
Why do you want this job?
What the employer is really asking: Have you researched the role and are you genuinely interested?
Tip: Explain what interests you about the position and how it connects to your skills, interests or future goals.
Example: "I'm interested in this role because I enjoy helping people and working in a team environment. It would also give me the opportunity to develop valuable customer service and workplace skills."
What are your strengths?
What the employer is really asking: What skills or qualities would make you successful in the role?
Tip: Choose strengths that are relevant to the position and support them with examples.
Example: "One of my strengths is reliability. When I commit to something, I show up on time and complete tasks to the best of my ability. This was important in my previous part-time job where my manager relied on me to open the store."
What is a weakness or an area you'd like to improve?
What the employer is really asking: Can you reflect on your personal development and take steps to improve?
Tip: Be honest and focus on what you're doing to improve rather than presenting a weakness as a strength.
Example: "I sometimes feel nervous speaking in front of groups, but I've been working on this by contributing more in class discussions and volunteering to present during group projects."
Tell me about a challenge you've faced
What the employer is really asking: How do you handle problems and setbacks?
Tip: Use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action and Result.
Example: "During a group assignment, one team member stopped contributing. I organised a meeting with the group, helped redistribute tasks and kept everyone updated. As a result, we completed the project on time and received a good grade."
Tell me about a time you worked as part of a team
What the employer is really asking: Can you work effectively with others?
Tip: Share an example from school, sport, volunteering, a club or a previous job.
Example: "As part of my sporting team, I worked closely with teammates to prepare for competitions. We communicated regularly, supported each other and achieved our goals together."
Do you have any questions for us?
Always say yes if you can. Asking questions shows interest and enthusiasm.
Consider asking:
- What does a typical day in this role look like?
- What qualities make someone successful in this position?
- What training and support will be provided?
- What are the next steps in the recruitment process?
When the interview is finished, be sure to thank the interviewer for their time and giving you the opportunity to meet with them.
After the interview
If you get the job
Congratulations!
Make sure you say thank you and get all the information you need to start your new position – employer name (including ABN), start date and time, location, what to wear and who to report to on day one.
If you don’t get the job
Don't give up!
Ask for feedback from the interview and use this to improve for the next one. Constructive feedback can be a great help in improving your chances next time.
Chat to your Job Placement Coach or Youth Worker to see what support we can offer as you commence into work!
When job interviews raise concerns
Occasionally in a job interview, you could learn things about the business that worry you.
Like maybe they don't seem serious about workplace health and safety, or perhaps you suspect they don’t obey the law.
If you have any concerns following the interview, be sure to speak with your Job Coach or Youth Worker (if you're a yourtown member).
To learn about your rights at work, visit Fair Work.
Looking for more jobseeker tips?
What to expect when starting a new job.
Learn how to create a resume that showcases your strengths.
Email: yourtownplus@yourtown.com.au
Phone: 1300 967 573
Text: 0488 415 415
