Interview Success: Insider Advice from Our Recruitment Manager
Whether you’re applying for your very first camp role or stepping into your next big opportunity, interviews can feel intimidating. The good news? With the right preparation, you can walk in feeling confident, focused, and ready to impress.
Our recruitment manager has shared her top tips to help you stand out and perform at your best, no matter what stage of your career you’re at.
Preparing for Success: Why Preparation Matters
Preparation is key to interview success. It not only helps you answer questions effectively, but also boosts confidence and reduces nerves. You’ll likely have a basic understanding from your application, but now’s the time to dig deeper:
- Research the Organisation
- Re-read the job description carefully
- Explore the organisation’s website
- Check their social media channels and recent news
- Learn about current projects and clients
Showing that you truly understand the organisation and how your role fits into it will instantly make a positive impression.
What to Expect: The Typical Interview Structure
While every company runs interviews slightly differently, most follow a similar pattern:
- Arrival and Introduction. Check in at reception and wait calmly, avoiding scrolling on your phone.
- The interviewer will usually outline the role and what they’re looking for.
- Question Time, expect a mix of general questions, behavioural questions, situational questions, uestions about gaps in your CV or salary expectations
Preparing for common questions will help you feel ready for anything.
Once your interview is scheduled
Confirm the date, time, and format, whether in person, online, or over the phone. Ensure it fits with your other commitments. If you require adjustments due to a disability, organisations such as Scope can guide you on how to request support
Getting Ready: Pre-Interview Checklist
Here’s a pre-interview checklist:
- Review Your CV and Prepare Examples. Highlight achievements, challenges you have overcome, and teamwork experiences.
- Practice Out Loud, Rehearsing with a friend or family member can make a big difference
- Prepare Questions – Asking insightful questions at the end shows genuine interest in the role
The Big Day: Tips for Staying Calm!
Feeling nervous is normal. Help yourself stay composed by:
- Giving yourself plenty of time to arrive
- Switching off your phone
- Testing your laptop, camera, and internet if online
- Being ready 5–10 minutes early
- Keeping the interviewer’s contact details handy in case of delays
- During the Interview: How to Shine
- Start with introductions and a brief overview of the role
- Ask for clarification if a question is unclear
- Listen carefully and take your time responding
- Remember to ask your prepared questions at the end
Keep in mind that the interview is as much about you assessing the role as it is about them assessing you.
After the Interview: Next Steps
If you’re offered the role, make sure you:
- Get the offer in writing
- Confirm your start date and any notice period
- Clarify salary and working arrangements
- A professional follow-up email demonstrates strong communication and attention to detail.
Handling Rejection: Turning Setbacks into Learning
- Not getting the role can be disappointing, but it’s also a valuable learning opportunity:
- Reflect on questions you found challenging
- Ask for feedback if possible
- Speak to a careers adviser for guidance
Every interview helps you improve and brings you closer to the right opportunity.
Final Thought: You’ve Got This!
Interviews don’t have to be scary, they are a chance to show who you are, what you can do, and why you would be a great fit for the team. With preparation, practice, and a confident mindset, you’ll give yourself the best chance of success.
Good luck, we’ll be cheering you on!