Module 4: Preparing for Job Interviews

Instructor Guidance

Slide 1: Welcome to Module 4 – Interview Skills

Emphasise that interviews are a key opportunity for learners to showcase their personality, skills, and suitability for the job. Outline the session’s goals: to build learners’ confidence, practice essential interview skills, and prepare them for real interview scenarios. Reassure learners that the session is designed to support and equip them, reducing anxiety and increasing their chances of success. Encourage active participation and remind learners that practice is a crucial part of preparation.

Slide 2: What Employers Want in an Interview

• Confidence (not arrogance)
• Clear communication
• Honesty and reliability
• Enthusiasm for the role
• Understanding of the job
• Ask: “Which of these do you think is most important?” (Group discussion)

Slide 3: Group Brainstorm – What Makes a Great Interview?

Conduct a flipchart activity by asking learners to think of a time when they had or witnessed a good interview. Prompt them with the question, “What stood out to you?” Gather their responses, which might include things like good eye contact, a calm tone, clear answers, and other positive interview behaviors. Write these observations on the flipchart to highlight key qualities of successful interviews.

Slide 4: Body Language

• 70% of communication is non-verbal
• Do’s: Sit up straight, eye contact, smile, nod
• Don’ts: Crossed arms, slouching, avoiding eye contact
• Pair activity: Practice a “good handshake” and confident greeting

Slide 5: STAR Technique

A method for answering interview questions

• Situation – What happened?
• Task – What was your role?
• Action – What did you do?
• Result – What was the outcome?
• Example on screen: “Tell me about a time you worked as part of a team.”

Slide 6: Watch and Discuss – Interview Clips

Play two short videos (or read sample scripts aloud):

• One positive interview
• One poor interview
  Group discussion: “What did each person do well or poorly?”

Slide 7: Common Interview Questions

Common interview questions include: “Tell me about yourself,” “What are your strengths?” “Why do you want this job?” and “Tell me about a time you dealt with a challenge.” A helpful tip is to structure your answers using the STAR method—Situation, Task, Action, Result—while keeping your responses simple and honest. For an activity, choose one question and write out your answer.

Slide 8: Activity – Interview Roleplay

Have learners pair up, with one person taking the role of the employer and the other the candidate. Use question cards or have the trainer read out prompts for the interview. Each person takes turns asking and answering questions. Afterward, peers provide feedback by discussing what went well and what could be improved.

Slide 9: Confidence

• Confidence comes from preparation
• Remember: They want you to do well!
• Positive self-talk and breathing techniques
• Short exercise: “Power Pose” for 30 seconds

Slide 10: Tips for Success on the Day

• Dress appropriately
• Arrive early
• Bring a copy of your CV
• Listen carefully
• Be polite to everyone
• Say thank you at the end

Slide 11: Summary – What Will You Take Into Your Next Interview?

Group reflection: “One thing I’ll do differently after today is…” Encourage learners to write a note to themselves: “My Interview Promise”

Slide 12: Careers Reflection

Laura is a Site Engineer at Morgan Sindall. Laura discusses what she does in her role. What job within the construction industry might you interested in exploring?