Attending an Interview

We hope this page will tell you all you need to know about attending an interview at the Council.

If you have a question and can’t find the answer here then please e-mail personnelofficesupport@fareham.gov.uk

• How to find us?
• Travel Expenses
• Information you will need to bring to the interview
• Selection Process
• Assistance
• Preparation for Interview
• How should I prepare?

Travel expenses

We will reimburse the cost of agreed travel expenses you incur.  We will send you a travel expenses claim form with your invitation to attend for interview which contains further details.  Similarly, if attending the interview will require you to make an overnight stay we will be pleased to make the necessary arrangements and contact details will be set out in the interview invitation.

Information you will need to bring to the interview

• If qualifications are stated as a requirement in the Person Specification we will need to verify them so please bring with you original copies of your qualification certificates

• You will receive a Declaration of Health form with your invitation to interview letter.  Please complete the form and bring it with you to the interview in the envelope provided.  We only review the Declaration of Health form if you are offered the post.  All others are shredded.

Selection Process

As part of the Selection Process we may conduct job related assessments and written exercises.  Although you may feel apprehensive please do not be put off!   We ensure that any assessments are relevant to the job you have applied for and you will receive full details in advance.

Assistance

We try to make sure our recruitment process if fair for everyone.  If you have a disability and need an adjustment made to any part of the process please do let us know.  We make adjustments on an individual basis to help individuals do their best.

Preparation for the interview

People usually feel a little nervous about attending an interview but if you undertake some preparation beforehand you are more likely to be able to present your skills and experience well.  For you, the interview is your chance to show the interview panel that you have the skills, experience and ability to do the job and that you can successfully fit into the Council and its culture.  It is also your opportunity to gather further information about the job and to confirm that the position and work environment are right for you.

How should I prepare?

• Find about the Council and the Department you will be working for – the Council’s main web site has lots of useful background information for you

• Make sure you have re-read the job description and person specification.  Remind yourself of what you said in your application and think of examples you could use to demonstrate your skills and experience in the various elements mentioned in the person specification, giving you the opportunity to highlight your achievements

• Think about how you can answer difficult questions accurately and positively, while keeping each answer brief remembering that whilst you may want to “sell yourself” to the panel answer each question with an honest response

• Think about any questions you might have for the interview panel about the job, training and development etc

• Plan your journey to the interview allowing time for traffic or other delays

• Dress appropriately

• Ensure you have all the documents you are required to bring with you to the interview

• Bring your interview invitation letter with you so you know where to report and who to ask for

• Good luck!