Before your interview

Interviews are an important part of the selection process. They are often your first opportunity to meet the panel and make a good impression. It’s also a chance for you to learn more about the role and the team.

Research

You may have already done some research when applying, but this is a good time to look more closely at the specific business-area or team in which the job sits. The more knowledge you have, the better prepared you will be.

Prepare

Take some time to think about your strengths, weaknesses and goals, as you may be asked about them. To boost your confidence, it’s a good idea to practice responding to common interview questions. It’s also helpful to re-familiarise yourself with the job description and its Statement of Duties.

Examples of questions that may be asked in the interview

  • Why do you want to work in this agency/team/service?
  • How will our agency/team values influence the way you work?
  • Tell us what you know about our agency/team and our work?

Examples of questions you can ask in the interview

  • What does an average day in this job look like?
  • I understand I will be working as part of a team. Who makes up the team and how is it structured? What will be my role in the team?
  • What kind of induction process do you have in place to help me settle into this role?

Interview practice

Practicing for an interview can help you feel more confident, calm and ready. Start by coming up with some questions that you think might be asked in the interview, then practise responding to them. If you can, practice with someone you trust. The more confident you are going in, the easier it will be. Below are some types of questions you may be asked, so have answers to them prepared.

  • Every interview will include questions about why you want the job and what you know about the service or agency.
  • Many interview questions will relate to the selection criteria, so be ready to explain how your skills, experience and strengths align with the role.
  • If you are applying for an ‘identified’ or ‘tagged’ position, you will be asked about your knowledge of Aboriginal people and culture and about any work or volunteer experiences with Aboriginal Communities, people and/or services that could inform the job you are applying for.

You will also be asked if you have any questions. It is a good idea to have a couple of questions prepared, because it shows you are engaged, and can help you assess if the role is a fit for you. Remember, a job interview goes both ways. Both parties are there to work out if the other one is a good fit for them. This is your opportunity to ask the panel about the job and what it will be like.

The interview

Interviews can be stressful and that’s completely normal. The panel understands this. The tips below can help you have an easier time and make a good impression:

  • Be on time – give yourself extra time to get there and settle in. Arriving a few minutes before your interview can help avoid stress associated with running late. Make sure to have a contact phone number with you in case you get lost or can’t find where you are supposed to be.
  • Dress appropriately – choose clothing that looks professional and feels comfortable. If you are not sure of what to wear, play it safe; corporate casual is suitable for most interviews.
  • Listen carefully – take the time to really listen to each question before you respond. If you need the interviewer to repeat the question, it is okay to ask. Taking notes can help even if they are just key words or dot points to jog your memory when responding. If you don’t listen, it is likely that you may miss key points in your response.
  • Answer succinctly – your answers should be succinct. Try to cover the key points rather than going into unnecessary details.
  • Ask questions – don’t be afraid to ask the interviewer some questions about the job. This demonstrates that you are enthusiastic about the organisation and position.

Phone interviews

  • Eliminate distractions – find a quiet space where you won’t be distracted. Turn off appliances like the TV, find a room where you are alone and sit down. Have all of your interview information and a copy of your application in front of you.
  • Speak clearly – make sure the panel can hear you clearly. Check that your phone or device is working properly. Allow the interviewer to finish speaking before responding to their questions. If you don’t, it is likely that you will only hear part of the question.

Video interviews

  • Check your surroundings – Set up in a quiet, distraction free place. Make sure the background is tidy and free from clutter. Try to minimise background noise like car noise, barking dogs, TVs or music. Ensure your space is well lit; it can be helpful to place a light behind your computer to illuminate your face and avoid shadows.
  • Equipment check – Get familiar with your equipment. Check that the camera is set at eye level, make sure the microphone function works, and everything is fully charged. It can be helpful to have a practice run.
  • Appearance – Wear clothes that you would wear to a face-to-face interview. If you are not sure of what to wear, play it safe; corporate casual is suitable for most interviews.
  • Rehearse interview questions – Your video camera may have a recording function. Before the interview, practice interview questions and answers directly to the camera. Playing the recording back will give you some great insights into how you can improve your techniques, and be ready for the real thing.
  • In the interview – Keep it professional. Be sure that if you are using Skype or another video platform your user name is professional just as you would with your email address and social media accounts.