How to prepare for a job interview. Interviews can be the most nerve-wracking part of job hunting — but they don’t have to be. With the right preparation, you can walk in (or log on) with clarity, confidence, and answers that impress. Employers across the country are looking for candidates who not only have the skills, but who also understand the role, the company, and how to communicate value under pressure.
Whether your interview is in person or remote, here’s how to get ahead of other candidates — and leave the kind of impression that gets you hired.
Know the Company and the Role — Better Than the Other Candidates
If you only do one thing before your interview, make it this: learn about the company. The easiest way to stand out is to speak their language and align yourself with their values, goals, and tone.
Where to Research the Company Before Your Interview
Use these trusted sources to dig deeper and tailor your answers:
- Companies House – Look up company history, directors, financials, and registration status.
- Company Website – Focus on the “About”, “Careers”, and “News” sections. Identify their mission, tone, and recent changes.
- Glassdoor UK – Read reviews, salary insights, and interview experiences from past applicants.
- LinkedIn – Search the company profile. Look at employee posts to understand team culture and tone.
🔍 Tip: Look at the company’s latest blog post, LinkedIn update, or press release and mention it in your interview. It shows genuine interest and extra effort.
How to Analyse the Job Description
Print or copy the full job listing and do the following:
- Highlight all verbs and skills – This shows you exactly what the employer values most (e.g., “collaborate”, “manage”, “deliver”).
- Find overlaps between your past experience and their requirements.
- Prepare specific examples for each requirement using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
Practice Interview Questions That Always Come Up
There’s no need to memorise a script — but preparing for high-frequency questions gives you a serious advantage. Most candidates in the UK stumble not because they lack experience, but because they don’t know how to phrase it.
Most Common UK Interview Questions and How to Tackle Them
- “Tell me about yourself”
- Keep it to 60–90 seconds. Focus on work experience, recent achievements, and how they relate to the role.
- Avoid going back too far in time or including irrelevant details.
- “Why do you want to work here?”
- Mention a specific thing you admire about the company — values, culture, growth, product.
- Link it to your goals and explain how you can contribute.
- “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
- Pick strengths that are relevant to the role and give examples.
- For weaknesses, mention something you’ve actively worked to improve — and how.
- “Describe a time you faced a challenge at work”
- Use the STAR technique: outline the situation, what your task was, the action you took, and the result.
- “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”
- Align your ambitions with the company’s potential career paths. Keep it realistic and growth-focused.
How to Practise Without Memorising
- Record yourself answering on your phone and review it.
- Ask a friend to run a mock interview with you via Zoom or WhatsApp.
- Use AI-based tools like Interview Warmup by Google to practise free responses in private.
🧠 Confidence grows with repetition. The more you rehearse, the more natural you’ll sound.
Dress to Impress — What Works Best for UK Interviews
Your appearance can make a lasting impression, even before you say a word. In the UK job market, professional attire is still valued, but knowing the right dress code depends on the company culture and role.
How to Choose the Perfect Interview Outfit
- Corporate and Finance Roles: Opt for a tailored suit in neutral colours like navy, grey, or black. Pair with a crisp shirt or blouse and polished shoes.
- Creative or Tech Roles: Smart casual often works well — think smart trousers or a skirt with a neat shirt or jumper. Avoid overly casual items like trainers or ripped jeans.
- Remote Interviews: Dress smartly from the waist up. Choose plain colours and avoid distracting patterns. Ensure your background is tidy and well-lit.
UK-Specific Tips for Grooming and Presentation
- Pay attention to personal grooming — clean, tidy hair and minimal, natural makeup if used.
- Keep accessories and fragrances subtle.
- Wear comfortable shoes but avoid trainers unless explicitly allowed.
- If you’re unsure about the dress code, check Glassdoor reviews or LinkedIn profiles of current employees.
Plan Your Journey and Prepare Logistically
Punctuality is critical in the UK job market. Arriving late can undo all your hard preparation and leave a poor impression.
How to Prepare for an In-Person Interview
- Use Google Maps or a journey planner to estimate travel time — add 15–20 minutes for unexpected delays.
- Check for public transport disruptions or roadworks on the day.
- Have the interview address, contact person’s name, and phone number saved on your phone.
- Bring multiple copies of your CV printed on quality paper, and a notebook and pen.
What to Do for Video Interviews
- Test your internet connection, microphone, and camera beforehand.
- Choose a quiet, well-lit room free from interruptions.
- Dress fully, not just from the waist up, to help maintain a professional mindset.
- Keep water nearby but avoid eating or chewing gum.
How to Ask Questions That Impress Employers
At the end of almost every interview, you’ll be invited to ask questions. This is a golden opportunity to show your interest and learn what matters.
Powerful Questions to Ask UK Employers
- “What does success look like in this role after 6 months?”
- “Can you tell me more about the team I’d be working with?”
- “What are the biggest challenges facing the department right now?”
- “Are there opportunities for professional development and training?”
- “What’s the company culture like day to day?”
Asking thoughtful questions helps employers see you as someone eager to contribute, not just take a job.
Mastering Body Language and Communication During the Interview
What you say is important — but how you say it can make or break your chances. Employers pay attention to your confidence, engagement, and professionalism through your body language and tone.
Effective Body Language Tips for In-Person Interviews
- Maintain good eye contact without staring — it shows confidence and honesty.
- Sit upright but relaxed to appear attentive without looking tense.
- Use natural hand gestures to emphasize points but avoid fidgeting.
- Nod occasionally to show you’re actively listening.
- Smile genuinely when appropriate — it builds rapport.
Communication Tips for Virtual Interviews
- Look into the camera, not the screen, to mimic eye contact.
- Speak clearly and slightly slower than usual.
- Use brief pauses to let your interviewer process what you’re saying.
- Mute notifications on your computer and phone to avoid distractions.
- Have notes or your CV handy, but avoid reading directly from them.
Handling Difficult Interview Questions With Confidence
Certain questions can throw candidates off balance — but with practice, you can turn them into opportunities to showcase your skills and personality.
How to Answer “Why Should We Hire You?”
- Summarize your top relevant skills, experience, and attitude.
- Tie your answer directly to what the company needs.
- Show enthusiasm for the role and the company’s mission.
Example:
“I bring five years’ experience managing teams in fast-paced retail environments, where I consistently exceeded sales targets. I’m passionate about creating positive customer experiences, which aligns with your company’s values.”
Tackling “What Are Your Weaknesses?” Without Losing Points
- Choose a real, minor weakness that doesn’t affect the role.
- Explain what steps you’ve taken to improve it.
- Keep the tone positive and forward-looking.
Example:
“I used to struggle with public speaking, but I’ve joined a local Toastmasters club and now volunteer to lead team meetings.”
Dealing With Gap Years or Employment Gaps
Honesty is the best policy. Briefly explain the gap and focus on skills or activities you developed during that time — like volunteering, freelance work, or courses.
Employers appreciate candidates who are self-aware and proactive.
