Currently due to the pandemic most HEE interviews are being held virtually, on video calling platforms like Teams, Zoom or FaceTime. However, if you are asked to attend an in-person interview, here are some practical tips to consider:
See Also
Bright Network- Scout the location of the interview ahead of the interview day.
- It’s a good idea to do a “dry run” – a few days before, make sure you can find the right office, work out where you can park, or public transport links, factor in contingency time for traffic, roadworks, bad weather, a flat tire etc
- Take some essential supplies with you: e.g., a drink of water, a copy of your application, information about the job, change for parking machine, and a pen and paper, some tissues etc.
- Most interviewers will expect you to be in smart business attire. This doesn’t necessarily mean you need to wear a suit and tie, but think at least smart casual
- Make sure everything is clean, well pressed and that it still fits you
- Check for small things like clean shoes, loose hems, and clean fingernails –things the interviewer may notice.
- Take the time to get in the right head space- don’t work right up to the interview, ideally take the morning or afternoon off, and use the spare time to review your application and remind yourself of your STAR examples.
- If it helps you feel prepared and confident, the use of cue cards or other memory joggers/notes is generally fine – most interviewers will not mark you down for this. However, don’t just read off your notes, try to speak fluidly by rehearsing your answers in advance.
- Avoid shuffling papers or fiddling with anything that is distracting - being nervous is OK but fidgeting is not
- Mobile phones should be on silent
- If you are asked to do a presentation, email it to the panel in advance so it can be loaded onto the HEE network. Don’t leave it to the last minute. You won’t be able to plug in a USB stick on the day because of HEE IT network security.
- Have a “Plan B” for presentations - if IT can go wrong, it will. It’s a good idea to have a paper copy or back up copy that you can speak to if the worst happens.
- Ensure any software you use is compatible – establish if the HEE network will support the version of your software.
- If you are asked to do any exercises e.g., role play, in-tray, written scenarios, ensure you read or listen to the instructions very carefully and ask questions if you are unsure of anything, before the timed exercise starts.
- Pay attention to any time limits for exercises. It can be useful to take a watch or phone, so you have access to a timer. Try to give yourself a few minutes at the end to read through and check your answers
