Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, interviews can be nerve-wracking. In this video, I’ll share some tips to help you perform well at your Home Office interview.
Tip: 1 Research how you will be assessed
We’ll always tell you in the job advert which elements of the Success Profiles framework to expect at interview. And you can find resources on Success Profiles and advice on each element on our website. It’s really important to understand what will be assessed ahead of your interview.
Tip 2: Prepare your examples
Review the Essential Criteria and prepare your best examples which demonstrate those skills and that experience. If we’re assessing Behaviours, review which ones we’re assessing and develop examples to showcase them. The same applies for any Technical Skills we’ll assess.
An excellent way to explain your examples is by using the STAR method, which stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Results. We’re really interested in hearing about what you personally did and what difference you made in that situation. You can learn more about STAR in our separate video.
Another element in Success Profiles is Strengths. You can’t prepare examples in advance for this. But have a think about the things you naturally enjoy and do well at.
Tip 3: Control your nerves
This is easy to say! It’s natural to be nervous. But remember we’re not trying to catch you out. We’re trying to give you the best opportunity to succeed.
You can decrease stress by arriving early to your interview, and if you’re doing a video interview, check that your tech will work on the day.
The panel will introduce themselves and tell you how the interview will be run. We’ll often start with an ice breaker question. This won’t be scored but is there to help you settle in.
It sounds simple but remember to answer the question you’re being asked – your mind is often racing and its essential to listen carefully. It’s generally a good idea to take a pause or write the question down to refer back to. You may have those pre-prepared examples that you want to use, however, be ready to adapt these, and your response, to ensure you are answering the question.
Tip 4: Let us know if you need any adjustments
We are an inclusive employer, so if you need any adjustments for your interview, please let us know and we’ll be happy to consider your request. We want to help you perform at your best.
At the end of your interview, you’ll have the chance to ask any questions. And after the interview you’ll receive your results, and in most cases, written feedback on your performance.
We hope this video has been helpful and wish you the best of luck!
For more, see careers.homeoffice.gov.uk/Applying