How To...

How to Prepare for an Interview: A Guide for Teenagers and Adults

No matter what career path you choose, chances are you’ll need to go through an interview at some point. Whether you’re applying for a college course, an apprenticeship, or a job, interviews are part of the journey.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about interview preparation. From different interview formats to example questions and how to answer them — you’ll learn how to make a great first impression and boost your confidence.

What Is an Interview?

An interview is your opportunity to show a college, training provider, or employer that you’re the right fit for their course, apprenticeship, or role — and for you to decide if they’re right for you, too. Think of it as a two-way conversation.

You might feel nervous, and that’s perfectly normal. The good news is that with the right preparation, you’ll feel much more in control and ready to shine.

Types of Interviews You Might Face

Interviews come in different formats. Here are some of the most common:

• Face-to-face interviews – usually with one or two interviewers. This is the most traditional type.

• Online interviews – conducted over Zoom, Microsoft Teams or another platform. Similar to face-to-face but done remotely.

• Panel interviews – involve three or more people and may include a presentation.

• Telephone interviews – used as an early screening stage. They test your communication skills and confirm what’s on your CV.

• Group interviews – several candidates are interviewed at the same time. These are common for roles where employers are hiring in bulk.

• Assessment days – involve a series of tasks and activities designed to assess a wide range of your skills.

Why Is Interview Preparation Important?

There are two key reasons why you should prepare:

1. You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression.
2. Good preparation boosts your confidence and performance.

By putting in time before the interview, you’ll reduce nerves and increase your chances of success.

How to Prepare for Your Interview

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get ready for an interview:

1. Research the Organisation

Find out about the college, training provider, or company you’re interviewing with. Look at their website, social media pages, and recent news.

Know what the course, apprenticeship, or job involves, and understand the key skills and qualities they’re looking for. Read the job description or course details carefully.

💡 Top tip: Be ready to share 3–4 facts about the organisation. It’s a common first question!

2. Match Your Skills to Their Needs

Think of examples from your past that show you have the skills they want. This could be:

• Teamwork from school group projects or sports.
• Problem-solving from helping a friend with an issue.
• Leadership from organising an event or club.

Even if you lack direct experience, talk about transferable skills.

3. Practise Interview Questions

Ask a friend or family member to help you practise. Common questions include:

• “Why do you want this role/course?”
• “Tell me about yourself.”
• “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
• “Tell me about a time you worked in a team or overcame a challenge.”

Have a few strong examples ready — and aim to show how you’ve developed and what you’ve learned.

4. Plan What You’ll Wear

First impressions count. Dress smartly but comfortably. If you need something new, budget options from supermarkets or shops like Primark can be perfect.

Organise your outfit before the night of the interview.

5. Check the Interview Details

For in-person interviews:

• Know the time and location.
• Research your travel route in advance.
• Arrive 5–10 minutes early (not earlier unless told to).
• Bring the contact details of your interviewer just in case.

For online interviews:

• Check your device, internet connection, webcam and microphone.
• Set up in a quiet space with a tidy background.
• Log on a few minutes early.

If you need any adjustments, let the interviewer know beforehand.

6. Prepare Questions to Ask Them

Always ask questions at the end of the interview — it shows you’re enthusiastic.

Examples include:

• What does a typical day look like?
• Are there opportunities for progression?
• Can you tell me more about the course/training?
• What do you enjoy most about working here?
• Avoid asking about pay, holidays, or social life at this stage.

Questions You Might Be Asked in an Interview

Here are some questions you should be ready for — and how to answer them:

About the Organisation:

• “Why do you want to work/study here?”
• “What do you know about us?”
• “Why do you think you're a good fit?”

👉 Tip: Use your research to tailor your answers.

About You:

• “Tell me about yourself.”
• “What do you enjoy doing in your free time?”
• “What are your hobbies?”

This is your chance to highlight your personality and soft skills. For example:

• Playing football or netball? You’re a team player.
• Baking? You’re organised and follow instructions well.
• Making music? You’re creative.

Situational Questions

These questions are about how you’ve handled real-life situations.

• “Tell me about a time you overcame a challenge.”
• “Describe a time you worked in a team.”
• “What’s your proudest achievement?”
• “Have you ever failed at something? What did you learn?”

Have two or three strong examples you can adapt for different questions.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Be honest but positive. For strengths, choose qualities relevant to the role or course, such as:

• Good communicator
• Problem solver
• Positive attitude
• Willingness to learn

For weaknesses, explain how you’re working on them. For example:

“I used to struggle with timekeeping, but I now set bedtime and morning alarms, and I haven’t been late since.”

Final Interview Dos and Don’ts

✅ Do:

• Confirm your attendance.
• Get a good night’s sleep and eat beforehand.
• Turn off your phone.
• Greet your interviewer with a smile and a handshake.
• Use professional language and be polite to everyone you meet.
• Sit up straight and make eye contact.
• Ask thoughtful questions at the end.
• Thank the interviewer for their time.
• Reflect on your interview afterwards and ask for feedback.

❌ Don’t:

• Arrive late or unprepared.
• Use slang or casual language.
• Interrupt or argue.
• Chew gum, eat, or swear.
• Lie or exaggerate.
• Speak negatively about past experiences or employers.

And Finally…

Preparing for an interview might feel overwhelming, but with the right mindset and preparation, you’ll walk in feeling confident and ready.

For more advice and inspiration, visit www.skillshullandeastyorkshire.co.uk — a great place to explore career options, get guidance, and find helpful videos and resources.