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Interview Questions

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The interview is a key opportunity for you to determine if the candidate has the required skills and desired attributes to fit the advertised role. A well-constructed interview is beneficial to both the interviewer and interviewee. The interviewee has the best opportunity to highlight their skills and abilities, and the interviewer can make an equitable and informed decision. 

Many candidates, particularly current students early in the academic career may not have had substantial work experience yet, in this scenario we would encourage employers to assess skills holistically by considering extra-curricular experiences such as positions of responsibility, volunteering or sporting activities as evidence of the required skills set.

Please note: the Main Questions below can be tailored based on the skills/personal qualities you seek. These questions may be useful as students balance assignments/work-life/part-time or project work.

Starter Questions

Can you tell me a little bit about yourself and what motivated you to apply for this position?

Purpose: This question helps put the candidate at ease and breaks the ice giving you insight into their background, interests, and motivations.

Follow-up: You could ask about their educational background or any projects/other roles they may have mentioned.

Tip: Neurodivergent students can struggle to answer very open questions. We recommend asking closed questions where possible (e.g. Tell me about any jobs/voluntary work you have done in the last five years) where the candidate can judge exactly what the employer wants to know.

Main Questions

Can you describe a project or assignment during your studies that you are particularly proud of? What was your role and what was the outcome?

Purpose: This allows the candidate to showcase their skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.

Follow-up: Ask about specific challenges they faced and how they overcame them.

Tip: Be encouraging - this may be a graduates first interview so try to make it a positive, supportive experience. This is not only good for the graduate and their future confidence but can be good for your businesses reputation and future recruitment.

How do you prioritise your tasks when you have multiple deadlines to meet? Can you provide an example?

Purpose: This question assesses time management and organisational skills.

Follow-up: Discuss the tools or methods they use to stay organised.

Tip: Take Notes - document their answers and any notable points for later reference when making your decision and to provide useful feedback. 

Can you tell me about a time when you had to work with a team to achieve a goal? What was your role and how did you contribute to the team’s success?

Purpose: This helps evaluate their teamwork and collaboration skills.

Follow-up: You could enquire about any challenges within the team and how they were resolved.

Tip: Be clear and supportive - remember, graduates might be nervous. Maintain a friendly and encouraging tone throughout the interview to help them feel at ease. If you feel questions have not been answered fully, feel free to re-word or re-prompt as nerves may result in shorter answers that do not fully reflect their skills/experiences.

What do you know about our company and why do you think you would be a good fit here?

Purpose: This question assesses their knowledge of your company and their understanding of how their skills and values align with your organisation.

Follow-up: Ask them to elaborate on specific aspects of your company they are excited about and how they see themselves contributing to its success.

Tip: Encourage Questions - at the end of the interview, ask the candidate if they have any questions about the role, team, or company. This shows their interest and helps you understand what they value.

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