Graduate Interviews

Types of interview
You may be interviewed by a panel, on the phone, over lunch or in a group. Learn about each type of interview, how to behave and how to make a lasting impression!

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​​​​​​​Preparing for your interview
Don’t go into your interview blind! Learn about the company, prepare for common questions and make sure you have all the relevant details before you start.

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​​​​​​​Interview tips
No one likes interviews, but our tips should make things a little easier. Prepare properly, decide what you’re wearing and know what to do before, during and after.

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​​​​​​​Sample job interview questions
Interviewers looks for certain skills and qualities in all employees so you can usually anticipate some of the questions - here are a few of the common ones which may be asked in your interview.

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What is a graduate job interview?

A graduate job interview is just like any other job interview, although it may sometimes be for a specifically advertised graduate position.

The purpose is for employers to gain a better understanding of your skills, experience and abilities, as well as your character and personality.

Types of interview you might face include:

  • Panel interview
  • Technical interview
  • Competency based interview
  • Telephone interview
  • Values-based interview

Always try to find out what type of interview you'll be facing as soon as you receive an invitation.

How do I prepare for a graduate job interview?

To prepare for a successful graduate job interview, we recommend you:

  1. Find out what kind of interview you'll face - look at the types of interview above to give you an idea of what it might be, but try to find out exactly what format it will be.
  2. Research the employer - make sure you know who they are, what they do, and any noteable facts worth highlighting. They want to meet candidates who are interestd in them after all!
  3. Think about yourself and who you are - make some notes on why you are a good fit for the role.
  4. Prepare yourself - re-read all your notes and have answers ready for some of the most common questions, such as "Why did you apply for this role?", and "What are your strengths?".
  5. Plan your day - know how you are going to get there, and how long it will take so you can leave plenty of time to make the journey, find the right building, etc.
  6. Control your nerves - it's normal to be anxious, but try to let your fears take over. Just try to relax and be yourself!
  7. Be professional at all times - no matter how you're feeling, always smile, be pleasant and mind your manners.
  8. Learn from the experience  - there's nothing you can do once the interview is over, so try not to fret. Instead, think about all the questions you were asked, and how you could improve your answers next time round.

For more help and advice, take a look at our Preparing For A Graduate Job Interview guide and our Graduate Job Interview Tips.

What questions will I be asked in my graduate job interview?

Some of the most common job interview questions for graduates include:

  • Why did you study your degree subject?
  • Why did you apply for this role?
  • What are your strengths/weaknesses?
  • What motivates you?
  • Where do you see yourself in five years' time?

For more example questions, please see our Graduate Job Interview Questions guide.