This part of the website is for students. Your Work Experience may be the first time you have been in a place of work. The information here will help you think about and get the most from your work experience.
Preparing for Interviews
First impressions count. So here are a few tips to make sure you make the right impression when you turn up for and during your interview.- 1. Arrive in plenty of time. This means sorting out your travel arrangements well in advance and leaving early enough to avoid hold-ups.
- 2. Dress smartly.
- 3. Be polite. Remember to say please and thank you. Wait to be invited to sit down. Hold doors open for other people.
- 4. Smile and try to relax.
- 5. Speak clearly and try to avoid one word answers if you can.
- 6. Listen to questions and instructions carefully.
- 7. Ask politely for more information if you don't understand something.
- 8. Write things down. There will almost certainly be too much to hold in your memory.
Questions to Ask
You will need to ask questions to make sure you have all of the information you need. The Personal Checklist (p6 of the Student Diary) is an excellent place to start. Make sure you have this with you.
Questions Asked
Be prepared for the kind of questions you might be asked. A common question from an employer is "What do you want to do when you leave school?". Or perhaps, "Why did you choose this type of work experience?" Answer sensibly.
