At OPSS we have a wide range of exciting job opportunities across multiple sectors. We are seeking talented and dedicated individuals who are committed to serving the public and passionate about making a positive impact on society. If you'd like to be part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and excellence, we'd love to hear from you.
We understand that the excitement of landing an interview is often followed by nervous anticipation. But don’t worry –– there's plenty of room for optimism. With the right approach, you can present your best self and excel at interview! Here are some tips to help you prepare and set you apart from the competition.
1.Research
Research the job role and the department to enhance your confidence during the interview process. By knowing the specific responsibilities and expectations of the role, you can adapt your answers to demonstrate how your skills and experiences align with the requirements for the role. Additionally, this knowledge will help you to frame impactful questions, demonstrating your enthusiasm for the role.
2. Prepare Questions
Examine the job description and essential criteria to develop relevant interview questions that align with the role’s requirements. The Civil Service uses Success Profiles to pinpoint the necessary skills, knowledge, experience, and personal attributes for effective performance in a specific position. These profiles include five key elements: behaviours, strengths, abilities, experience, and technical skills. The job advertisement will state which elements are being evaluated for the role you are interested in, as well as the methods of assessment, which may include interviews, presentations, application forms, or technical exercises.
3. Practise
Use the STAR method to rehearse your responses to behavioural competency questions.
The STAR method is a structured technique designed to help you provide clear and concise responses to interview questions. It does this by dividing your answer into four parts:
Situation: Provide the background for a task you completed or a challenge you faced, setting the stage for your story.
Task: Clarify the particular task or responsibility you were assigned in that scenario.
Action: Describe the specific steps you took to tackle the task or overcome the challenge.
Result: Describe the results of your actions, emphasising your achievements and lessons learned. Where possible, use quantifiable measures to show the impact, such as performance improvements, cost savings, or other measurable benefits.
4. Seek a quiet, undisturbed space
The majority of our interviews are carried out remotely. You will receive an email with detailed instructions on how to access your interview. Please ensure your environment includes a device capable of running the required software. For an ideal online interview experience, we recommend selecting a quiet, distraction-free environment. Furthermore, a set of headphones and ensuring good lighting can greatly enhance your experience.
5. Create a favourable impression
Even though your interview is online, many traditional face-to-face interview tips still apply. Log in early to avoid any last-minute technical issues, dress appropriately to make a good impression, and have all necessary documents readily available.
6. Stay calm
Slow, deep breaths can help soothe your nerves and maintain your focus. Listen carefully to each question, and if you need any clarification, feel free to ask for the question to be repeated. Remain calm and address technical issues with composure if they occur.
7. Ask questions
The interview is a two-way process. It's an opportunity for us to learn more about you and your experiences, as well as your chance to learn about us and the role you’ve applied for. Where our goals align, it results in a better match, enhancing the likelihood of long-term satisfaction and success in the role. You'll have an opportunity to ask questions at the end of the interview. Take this chance to explore the topics relating to the role that spark your curiousity.
8. Assess your performance
Reflect on what went well and identify areas for improvement. Consider your responses to the questions, and any questions that you found particularly challenging. Requesting feedback after your interview can provide valuable insights into your performance.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the requirements of the role and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role. Good luck with your interview!
For further support on applying for roles at OPSS, sign up for a virtual Candidate Support Session here.
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