A WEU Guide
Whether you’re returning to work, changing industries, or going for a promotion, interviews can be tough but with the right preparation, you can take control. Experience alone isn’t enough these days. Employers want confident, well-prepared candidates who know how to present themselves and their skills effectively.
Many of our WEU members have years of valuable hands-on experience, but if that doesn’t come across in the interview, it can be overlooked. That is why we’ve put together this no-nonsense guide to help you sharpen your interview skills and avoid common pitfalls.
Why Interview Skills Matter for Union Members
Interviews aren’t just about ticking boxes. You need to explain clearly how your experience fits the new role, why you want the job, and what makes you, the right person to employ for their team. Whether you’re staying in your trade or shifting careers entirely, strong interview skills help you make that case with confidence.
8 Steps to Interview Success
1. Prepare, Prepare, Prepare
Lack of preparation is one of the most common and avoidable interview mistakes. Before the big day:
- Research the company: its mission, values, projects, and market position.
- Know who the key players are.
- Understand the role inside out. If you don’t, it’ll show and not in a good way.
- Plan your route or tech setup in advance. Being late because of traffic or dodgy Wi-Fi doesn’t give a great impression.
2. Dress to Impress
Your appearance is part of your first impression. That doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune on clothes, but you do need to look clean, smart, and job-appropriate:
- Avoid weekend outfits, no ripped jeans or trainers.
- Match the company culture, but when in doubt, dress slightly more formal than you think you need.
- Make sure your clothes are clean, ironed, and comfortable, you want to focus on your answers, not your outfit.
3. Practise Common Questions
Confidence comes with practice. Expect to be asked questions like:
- “Tell me about yourself.”
- “Why do you want this job?”
- “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
- “Describe a time you dealt with conflict.”
Shape your answers with real examples from your work, training, or life experience. Practising out loud (ideally with a friend) helps you sound natural and focused.
4. Get Comfortable with Different Interview Formats
Today’s interviews can happen face-to-face, over the phone, or via video call. For remote interviews:
- Test your internet, camera, and microphone in advance.
- Find a quiet, distraction-free space.
- Have any login details ready, and remove background noise if possible.
Being technically prepared is part of showing professionalism.
5. Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Finding the balance between saying too much or too little is tricky but essential:
- Don’t waffle or go off-topic. Nerves often cause over-talking, but rambling can bury your key points.
- Don’t undersell yourself either. If you forget to mention relevant experience, the employer can’t guess it.
Pause before answering. Speak slowly, maintain eye contact, and stay calm, even if your mind goes blank. It’s OK to ask for a moment to think or to come back to a tough question later.
6. Don’t Sabotage Yourself
Avoid these all-too-common interview mistakes:
- Turning up late or unprepared – Looks like you don’t care.
- Criticising past employers or colleagues – Even if you’re right, it comes across as unprofessional.
- Being vague about your experience – Be specific and bring your work to life with examples.
- Failing to ask questions – This makes you seem uninterested. Always prepare two or three thoughtful questions (e.g. “What are the team’s current priorities?” or “How is success measured in this role?”).
- Asking about salary or holidays too early – Wait until the employer raises it or until an offer is on the table.
7. Make a Strong First Impression
Small things matter. Greet everyone you meet with respect. Start from reception staff to senior managers. Smile, shake hands if appropriate, and be polite throughout. Employers want team players who fit the culture.
8. Follow Up
Within 24 hours, send a short thank-you email:
- Reaffirm your interest in the role.
- Mention something specific from the conversation.
- Keep it brief but professional, it leaves a lasting impression.
Remember;
- Relax – Easier said than done, but remember: if you’re at interview stage, they’re already interested. Be yourself and let your strengths show.
- Be enthusiastic – Show genuine interest in the job and the company. Talk about how you can contribute to its future.
- Be polite and professional – Good manners, eye contact, a smile, they all count.
Summary
Interviews can be daunting, but they’re also an opportunity. With practice, preparation, and the right mindset, you can tell your story, show your strengths, and get the job you deserve.
Stephen Morris, General Secretary of the WEU, affirms:
“The WEU is here to support you, whether it’s through training, advice, or simply giving you a confidence boost. If you’re preparing for an interview, the guidance above is designed to help. The WEU isn’t just about protecting your employment rights; we’re committed to helping you progress and advance in your career.”