Job interview checklist
Prepare for an in-person or video job interview: research the role, practise examples, check the details and plan your follow-up.

UNDERSTAND THE ROLE
- Save the job description and the application you submitted
- Match the main requirements to examples from your work, study or volunteering
- Read the employer's website to understand its products, services and customers
- Look up the interviewers' roles if their names have been shared
- Write down why you want this role and what you could contribute

PREPARE YOUR ANSWERS
- Practise a short introduction covering your relevant experience and interest in the role
- Choose examples of solving a problem, working with others and learning from a mistake
- For each example, note the situation, your task, what you did and the result
- Prepare to explain any career changes or gaps honestly and briefly
- Review the skills or work samples relevant to any announced assessment
- Rehearse your answers aloud with a friend or record a practice round
- Prepare questions about the role, team, priorities and recruitment process

CONFIRM THE PRACTICAL DETAILS
- Check the date, time, time zone, interview format and expected duration
- Confirm the address or video meeting link
- Save the recruiter's contact details in case you are delayed or cannot connect
- Request any accessibility adjustments you need ahead of time
- Check whether you must bring identification, documents or a portfolio

THE DAY BEFORE
- Choose clean, comfortable clothes appropriate for the workplace
- Pack a copy of your application, notes, a pen and any requested documents
- Plan the journey, parking or public transport with time for delays
- For a video interview, test the meeting software, camera, microphone and internet
- Choose a quiet video interview space with light in front of you
- Charge your phone and laptop

BEFORE AND DURING THE INTERVIEW
- Arrive at the venue around 10 to 15 minutes early, or join the call a few minutes early
- Silence notifications and close unrelated applications
- Keep water nearby
- Listen to the full question and ask for clarification when needed
- Explain your own contribution when describing team achievements
- Ask your prepared questions that have not already been answered
- Confirm the next steps and expected response date

AFTERWARDS
- Note the questions asked and any details you want to remember
- Send any materials or information you promised
- Send a brief thank-you message if appropriate for the employer's process
- Follow up politely if the agreed response date passes
- Write down one thing to improve for your next interview