Interview Tips for Job Seekers in the UK
Practical Advice from the Recruitment Experts at SERT
Looking for your next job or apprenticeship? Whether you're applying for your first role or progressing in your career, feeling prepared for a job interview in the UK can make all the difference. At SERT we do more than match people to jobs. We support you from training through to employment. That includes helping you prepare for interviews with practical advice, reassurance and guidance from our experienced recruitment team.
Explore our expert-backed job interview tips UK edition. Each one is designed to help you feel more confident and prepared, no matter the industry.
How to Prepare for a Job Interview
1. Research the Company
One of the best ways to feel ready is to learn about the company before the interview. This shows you're serious about the opportunity and willing to put in the effort.
Before your interview:
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Visit the company’s website and social media
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Look at recent news, projects or partnerships
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Understand their services, values and goals
💡 Top Tip: Try to reference something specific you’ve read or seen. It’s a great way to show genuine interest.
If you're applying for an apprenticeship or trade job, learning about the company’s recent work or clients is especially useful.
2. Tailor Your Answers to the Job Description
Many candidates ask how to give the best interview answers UK wide. One reliable method is to match your experience and goals to what the employer is looking for.
Explain clearly:
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Why you’re interested in this role
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How your skills and background meet their needs
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What you can bring to the team
This applies whether you're looking for entry-level jobs, apprenticeships or skilled roles in areas like engineering, construction or administration.
Interview Techniques That Help You Stand Out
Use the STAR Method
If you're unsure how to structure your answers in an interview, the STAR method is a great tool to keep your responses clear and focused.
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Situation – What was going on?
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Task – What needed to be done?
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Action – What steps did you take?
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Result – What happened in the end?
This method works well when asked about your previous experience or when responding to common interview questions in the UK such as “Tell me about a time you solved a problem”.
Ask Insightful Questions
One of the most overlooked job interview tips is to prepare a couple of thoughtful questions for the end of the interview.
Here are two good examples:
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“What would success in this role look like after six months?”
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“What are the current priorities for the team?”
These show you’re serious about the role and thinking about your potential contribution. This applies to both office-based and hands-on trade job interviews.
How to Make a Good First Impression in a Job Interview
Dress Smartly and Arrive Early
If you're wondering how to make a good first impression in an interview, focus on the basics.
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Dress smartly and in a way that suits the company or industry
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Arrive 10 minutes early or join your video interview a few minutes in advance
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Be polite, confident and professional
First impressions matter whether you're applying for your first role or moving into a new sector.
Show That You're a Great Fit
Employers want someone who can do the job and also fit in well with the team.
You can show this by:
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Being positive and open to feedback
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Demonstrating good communication skills
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Letting your personality come through without losing professionalism
If you're applying for a customer-facing job or working as part of a team, this is especially important.
What to Do After the Interview
Send a Follow-Up Email
One of the easiest ways to stand out is to send a short follow-up email after your interview UK style. It shows professionalism and enthusiasm.
📨 Example:
“Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today. I enjoyed learning more about the company and the role and I’m very interested in the opportunity to contribute to your team.”
Ongoing Support from SERT
At SERT we’re here to support you throughout your journey. Whether you're applying for an apprenticeship or a skilled role in trades or technical fields, our team is here to help you succeed with:
- Personal interview coaching and job interview advice for beginners
- Help with CVs and applications
- Access to industry-recognised training and certification
Ready to take the next step in your career?
Call us on 01489 232090 or browse our live job vacancies now.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common interview questions in the UK?
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“Tell me about yourself”
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“What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
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“Where do you see yourself in five years?”
How can I calm nerves before a job interview?
Give yourself time to prepare. Practise your answers out loud and focus on your breathing. These interview confidence tips really help.
How long do interviews last in the UK?
Most last between 30 and 60 minutes depending on the company and the role.