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Interview tips

If you've submitted a good application|, you may be invited to come to an interview. This page gives some tips on how to prepare and what to expect at your interview. 

For certain nursing and midwifery posts, you may be invited to come to an assessment centre| instead.  

Preparing for your interview

Do your research about our hospitals and the department you are being interviewed for. 

  • Prepare for the interview questions. Read through the job description, person specification and your application. The questions you are asked will relate to these documents, so have a think about what you may be asked and prepare your answers in advance. You may also want to prepare some questions for the panel of your own.
  • Think about your appearance. It's not just what you say that makes an impression; it's also how you look. Make sure you are dressed smartly for your interview.
  • Plan your journey. There can often be delays, so leave plenty of time so you don't get caught out. If you're early, you can always spend the time going through your notes. If you are delayed for any reason, make sure you call ahead to let your interviewers know.

Switch off your mobile before you enter the room. 

  • Travelling to your interview

    Your interview may take place in one of several places. Please check where your interview is being held. The links below give more detail on how to get to the various locations.

  • In the interview

    First impressions count. Shake hands with your interviewers firmly, but friendly.  Smile, even if you're nervous inside – it helps you to relax and makes you look more approachable. It also gives the impression that you're enthusiastic!

    Be aware of your body language. Make eye contact, but don't overdo it and make sure you address everyone in the room.  Avoid pointing or using gestures too much to emphasise a point, which can distract the interviewers from your answer. 

    Don't fold your arms; this makes you appear defensive or uninterested.

    Interview questions

    Most of our interviews are structured, with each interviewers having a number of questions to ask.  Think about how you answer your questions.   Don't ramble, but don't be so brief that the interviewers have to continually prompt you for more information. 

    Try to keep to the point and make sure you are actually answering the question. 

    If you do not have relevant experience of a situation, don't be afraid to say so, but suggest what you would do in that situation or think of another way to demonstrate your ability or the skills they are looking for.   Equally if you don't understand a question, ask for clarification.

    The interviewers may ask you questions about the information you submitted on your application form.  If your last role was more senior, the interviewers may want to understand why you are applying for this role, or may ask about any gaps in your employment.

    Don't forget that this is also your chance to see if the role is suitable for you.  Don't be afraid to ask questions, for exampe about the role or development prospects. 

  • After your interview

    Try to remember the questions and your responses, as this may help you to improve your performance in the future. 

    Whether successful or not, ask for feedback so you can learn from the experience and prepare for the next step.   

    Remember, if you are not successful this time, you may want to apply again, so use feedback constructively.  It's not a reason to argue with the hiring manager. 

    See our interview success page to find out what happens if you are offered a job with us.