APPRENTICESHIP INTERVIEW QUESTIONS & TIPS
An interview is a great opportunity to showcase your skills, shout about your strengths, and let your personality shine in order to secure your dream apprenticeship.
However, no matter how old you are or how much experience you have, the interview process can be incredibly daunting and stressful. No one knows exactly what will pop up in an interview, but you can still take the time to prepare by familiarising yourself with some of the most common questions asked and thinking about how you would use your own examples and experiences to answer them.
If you’re preparing for an apprenticeship interview, you’ve certainly landed in the right place! Here’s our guide to commonly asked apprenticeship interview questions and tips for answering them.
What questions will I be asked?
First impressions are formed in your opening conversations and interactions with the person you are being interviewed by.
One of the most common questions asked is “what skills and experience can you bring to this role?”. When answering this question, focus on relaying your strengths and what makes you unique, drawing upon examples of your own experiences which are linked to the key requirements of the role.
Other common questions include:
- Tell me about yourself
- Why do you want to work for us?
- What is your greatest achievement?
- Are you a team player?
- What motivates you?
- Tell me about your strengths and weaknesses
- Why are you interested in an apprenticeship?
- Where do you see yourself in five years?
Make sure you prepare answers for these questions.
Always keep your answer concise
Although you should try to include as much detail as possible in your answers, they also need to be concise and relevant too. Remember to keep the conversation as natural as possible - sounding as though you are reciting your answers from a script is not going to allow your personality to shine through.
What to take to an apprenticeship interview
Before your interview, it’s important to ensure you have everything you need to take with you. The last thing you want is to arrive with the wrong items, flustered and rushed.
It’s always worthwhile checking with the employer whether they want you to bring any specific information or examples with you.
As well as anything specific that your interviewers have asked you to bring with you, you should take a copy of your CV and covering letter, a copy of the apprenticeship job description, and a notebook and pen.
What to wear to an apprenticeship interview
Your apprenticeship interview is one of the first opportunities you will have to impress, so it’s important that you look the part. After all, first impressions count.
With this in mind, make sure you dress smartly, but ensure that you are comfortable too.
How long do apprenticeship interviews last?
Apprenticeship interviews generally last between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on what the interviewer wants to cover and how much you have to say. Most employers will give you an idea of how long your interview is likely to last, prior to the day.
How to prepare for an apprenticeship interview
They say: “fail to prepare and prepare to fail,” and this couldn’t be truer. Before any interview, make sure that you prepare by ensuring that you have done your research about the company and the role, as well as thinking about any relevant examples you might want to draw on.
You should also make sure that you look your best and that you are positive and well rested. Arrive early, make sure your phone is switched off and always make eye contact!
Are apprenticeship interviews hard?
No interview is easy, and many people find them daunting. But to view the interview as an opportunity to share your knowledge and skills, impress the interviewer, and find out more about the role. Ensuring you prepare will make the interview as easy as possible.
What questions to ask in an apprenticeship interview?
At the end of any interview, it’s important that you ask questions so that you look interested in the role and understand what the apprenticeship will entail.
Common questions include:
- Who are the main people and groups I'd be collaborating with?
- What are the career paths you see in your company for the person who holds this position?
- How long will the apprenticeship last?
- Why did you create this role?
- What hours will I be working?
Extra tips to prepare well for your interview
The time you take to prepare for your interview will have a huge impact on how successful you are. Here are some extra tips:
Dress well
Dressing in the right attire for an interview not only demonstrates that you are serious about the job you are applying for, but it also shows that you are respectful towards the corporate culture. It’s important that all employees are able to be professional and this means looking the part too.
Turn your phone off
Many of us are permanently attached to our smart phones. But, when you’re attending any interview, you should always ensure that all of your devices are turned off or on silent mode. If your phone does ring or buzz, this can be incredibly distracting for both you and the interviewer.
Maintain eye contact
Maintaining direct eye contact with the interviewer is incredibly important as it not only demonstrates that you are fully engaged and interested but it also demonstrates a high level of professionalism.
Research
It’s expected that candidates carry out research before any interview. With this in mind, you should take the time to learn more about the company’s history, successes, and clients, as well as any other key information you might be questioned about.
Arrive early
Punctuality and good time keeping are qualities that all employers look for. And, as well as getting your interview off to a great start, arriving early will also give you enough time to gather your thoughts, have a drink, and sign into the building.
Finally, you should always be yourself in any interview setting, remember to smile, be confident and always tailor your interview approach to the company you are applying to.
Good luck!
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