Once you have confirmation that you've reached the interview stage, remember to use the days and weeks leading up to the interview date to research anything that you do not feel particularly confident with. 

Preparing for your interview

The questions you will be asked will be linked to the person specification, so read it again before you attend the interview. Try to work out the types of questions you will be asked and think about the answers you could give.

Once you have been given a date for your interview, use the time before this to prepare yourself. This will help to stop you from feeling nervous. 

Make sure you know: 

• Exactly where the interview is going to be held. If you're not sure, find out
• How you will get to the interview and how long the journey will take. 

Also make sure that you: 

• Find out as much as you can about the service and what it actually does
• Re-read the job description and the person specification 
• Remember that the questions that you will be asked will be based on the person specification, so try to anticipate them. 

During the interview

The interview panel usually consists of three people. One of these will be the manager or supervisor of the department that you have applied to join. 

The length of the interview will depend on the type of job you are applying for, but it will generally last between 30 to 45 minutes and it may include a test relating to the role.

If you are successful

There will be a number of checks made before you are cleared to start work. These will include eligibility to work in the UK, medical clearance, a pre-employment questionnaire and, if it is a requirement of the role, a Disclosure and Barring Service Check (previously known as CRB).

If you are already in employment, do not hand in your resignation until you have been told that you have cleared all the necessary checks and are free to start work.

If you are not successful

If you attend an interview and are unsuccessful, we will happily give you feedback on your performance. This can be useful and may help you with your next interview. Try not to lose heart - use each interview as a learning opportunity and keep on trying until you succeed.