An interview is one of the most important moments in your job search. It is your opportunity to show an employer who you are beyond your CV and to demonstrate your potential, your personality, and the experience that has shaped your career so far.
At Chiltern Recruitment, we are committed to helping you succeed. This guide is designed to give you clarity and confidence, with practical advice that prepares you for every stage of the interview process. Our aim is simple: to help you walk into each interview feeling informed, prepared, and ready to perform at your best.
Before the interview
Use this checklist to make sure nothing is left to chance.
- Double check the interview date, time, and format.
- Look up the company’s location and plan your route in advance.
- Find out who you will be meeting and what their role is.
- Read through the job description and match your experience to the role.
- Take a clean, up to date copy of your CV.
- Research the company’s services, values, and recent activity.
- Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the role and the business.
- Allow extra time for travel in case of delays.
Presenting yourself
First impressions count. How you present yourself sets the tone from the moment you arrive. Dress appropriately for the company and the role. If you are unsure what is suitable, contact us at Chiltern Recruitment and we will advise you. Our role is to help you feel confident and aligned with the culture of the business you are meeting.
During the interview
Keep these points in mind to create a strong and professional impression.
- Arrive on time and be polite to everyone you meet.
- Greet your interviewer confidently.
- Answer questions honestly and use examples from your experience.
- Sit comfortably, maintain eye contact, and stay engaged.
- If a question is unclear, ask for it to be repeated or explained.
- Listen carefully and respond thoughtfully.
- Keep your answers focused and relevant.
Try to avoid the following.
- Rushing your answers.
- Interrupting the interviewer.
- Dwelling on tasks outside the role.
- Speaking negatively about past employers.
- Giving one word answers without explanation.
Questions you may be asked
- What did your previous role involve?
- Which parts of your work did you enjoy most?
- What did you find challenging?
- Why did you leave your last position?
- What attracted you to this opportunity?
- Where do you see your career heading?
- Why do you feel you are right for this role?
- What are your key strengths and areas you want to improve?
- What skills would you like to develop next?
Questions you could ask
- What are the company’s priorities over the next year?
- What training or support is available?
- Why has this role become available?
- What systems or tools are used day to day?
- How is the team structured?
- What progression opportunities are available?
Wrapping up
- Ask about next steps in the process.
- Find out when a decision is likely to be made.
After the interview
Contact your Chiltern Recruitment consultant as soon as possible to share your thoughts and level of interest. We will gather feedback from the employer, discuss next steps, and keep you fully informed.
Job offers
If you receive an offer through Chiltern Recruitment, we will guide you through every stage of acceptance and onboarding, making the process clear and straightforward.
We wish you every success and are here to support you at every step of your job search.
Good luck.
