The interview is the time you have to sell yourself to the employer and to find out if you’re the right candidate for the job. Preparing for an interview is really important, so here’s some common questions that might come up.
1. Tell me about yourself…
This question is designed for employers to find out about your working and academic background and also your reasons for applying for the role.
- Give a brief overview of your work and school experience. Have you completed any work experience that you could discuss?
Connect your experience with the reasons for applying for the apprenticeship.
Talk about your skills and experiences and how they can benefit the business.
2. Why have you applied for this role with this company?
This question shows an employer that you really want the job and you want to work for them. Demonstrate you:
- Have researched the company.
- Understood the company’s aims and objectives.
- Know what the company’s products and services are.
3. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
This question is designed to find out if your strengths match the role and any weaknesses you have where training may be available.
- It’s important to provide an answer that demonstrates the skills and qualities relevant to the position you are applying to.
- When discussing your weaknesses, show how you have managed to minimise them or turn weaknesses into strengths.
- Be positive and explain that you are happy to undertake further training to develop your skills.
4. Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
- Describe how you think the apprenticeship would help you reach your goal by saying how you would like to progress through the company.
- You could talk about the skills and experiences you’d like to gain or any career ambitions that are relevant to the role you’ve applied for.
5. Have you got any questions you would like to ask us?
Asking questions about the apprenticeship on offer is a good thing as it shows a hiring manager that you are interested in the job and the company. Write down your questions before the interview and take them with you. Possible questions could include:
- What’s it like to work here?
- What would a typical day be like?
- How will my time be divided between working and learning?
- What have former apprentices gone on to do once they have completed their apprenticeship?
Last updated: 28th March 2022