Preparing for an interview
Being interviewed by a potential employer is usually essential to getting a job.
Being prepared for your interview means you can feel more confident about how you will perform. During the interview, you will probably be asked why you should be chosen for the job. Prepare an answer to possible questions. What skills and attributes does the job call for? How do your abilities and qualities meet those needs? Ask a friend or family member to practise with you and get an idea of how you will answer these questions.
Show that you are really interested in the job by finding out as much as you can about the tasks required and the organisation that may become your employer.
Thinking about your disability before the interview
If your disability could affect how you perform essential elements of the job, you may need to think about changes to your work area or working hours. You can read our section about ‘Your workplace’. This may help you think of some ideas to raise with the employer at the interview.
The employer can get help to cover the cost of making changes to help you do a job. This is called the Employment Assistance Fund. You can print an information sheet about the Employment Assistance Fund and give it to the employer at the interview.
Planning your travel to the interview
Plan your travel arrangements for the interview well in advance. Do a practice run so you know where you’re going and how long it will take. Allow extra time for possible traffic and transport delays. Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes early. This allows you to gather your thoughts before the interview. It also shows your prospective employer that you are keen.
Some more specific information on preparing for an interview
- What can an employer ask at an interview?
- What do I say about my disability at an interview?
- What if I need help for the interview?
- How do I organise a sign language interpreter for an interview?
- What if an employer raises concerns in an interview?
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