10 Tips to Ace Your Apprenticeship Interview

Interviewing for an apprenticeship is very similar to how you’d interview for any other job. After all, an apprenticeship is a foot through the door with a good employer and a way to get that all-important work experience, as well as a qualification.
If it's your first interview, it's normal to feel nervous but don't worry, we can help you feel prepared.
Here are our 10 top tips to ace your apprenticeship interview:
- Do your research: take a look at their website. What’s the culture, what do they offer their customers, what are they proud of and why do you want to work for them in particular?
- Stand out: you may want be prepared with suggestions on what you could do differently or what you would bring to their organisation.
- Familiarise yourself with the job description: do you have any relevant experience already, transferrable skills or an interest in what they’re asking for?
- Take a portfolio of work: if you have any relevant work to take with you, be proud and showcase your work.
- Practice interview questions: after looking at the job description, you should have an idea of what questions they might be likely to ask you. Ask a friend or family member to help you rehearse your answers so that you’re well prepared.
- Review your online/social media profile: make your settings private and check that you’re happy with what a potential employer may see.
- Plan your journey: how are you going to get there and how long will it take? Ensure you get there on time and you have enough time to spare so that you feel more relaxed.
- Dress appropriately for the job: show your potential employer that you’re ready to work for them.
- Follow up on an interview: even if you have been unsuccessful. Don’t worry, it happens, but what’s more important is that you can learn from your experience for your next interview.
- Be yourself! Relax and be yourself at your interview. Remember, you're choosing your employer as much as they're choosing their apprentice.
We wish you the best of luck if you're due to attend an apprenticeship interview!
If you want to make a great first-impression with a local employer come to our Apprenticeship Open Evening on Wednesday 18 March. You can talk to employers currently recruiting and even apply for vacancies on the night.