Top five tips to ace an apprenticeship interview

If you’ve got an interview this new year, like any kind of work it’s always a great idea to prepare and be the best you can be. 

With a little bit of research, you’ll feel confident, be more knowledgeable and be ready to shine in front of your potential new employer.

Here are our top five tips for acing that interview. Good luck.

1. Research, Research, Research

First up, get stuck into Google and visit the company website. Make sure you’ve looked at their products and services, how your role might fit into the business and any recent news pages. It will be great in your interview if you reference some of your research. Don’t forget to check out their social media from Facebook to Twitter and LinkedIn to Instagram. Even follow them and send a message. 😊

2. Know your role

You’ve applied for the apprenticeship vacancy, so you’ll understand the role, what your experience is and why you think you should get the job. But make sure you read the job description and try to think about any questions you may get asked about the role. You can always call the employer or the HR team before the interview to ask any questions you may have.

3. Make sure you know where you are going

Don’t be late is always a bit of good advice. Plan your journey and make sure you add on an extra 30 minutes to cater for traffic – check the latest traffic reports on your phone before you leave.

But don’t worry. Everyone knows that sometimes buses are late or there is a traffic jam. Always make sure that your keep your employer up to date with your commute. If you feel you are going to be late, ring ahead and let the reception know.

Aim to get there in advance and take the opportunity to look at any brochure or leaflets. They could be something you reference in your interview.

4. Dress to impress

Think about what you wear to an interview. It all depends on the role. If in doubt call ahead to the employer and ask if they have a dress code.

5. Ace the interview

The most important thing to remember is to be yourself. Be natural. It’s a great first impression if you smile, shake hands, maintain eye contact and introduce yourself.

Why not ask them how they are? How their day is going? Perhaps tell them how great their offices look or how friendly the staff have been?

Remember. They are friendly people looking for someone (you) to join their company. They understand people will be nervous. They are probably just as nervous as you are.

Don’t forget to listen carefully to questions and ask them to repeat them if needed. Make sure you have a pre-prepared list of questions that relate to your apprenticeship and to the employers company.

Most of all. Good luck.