Get ready to ace that interview! Here are our top tips to help you prepare for full-time employment.
If you’ve secured a job interview, you’ll want to make sure you showcase your skills. However, as a deaf job seeker, there may be unique challenges to overcome. Our Employability team has put together these top tips to help you prepare and make sure the interview is a success.
Confirm communication support in advance
Ensure that the employer has booked an interpreter or appropriate communication support for you. Don’t hesitate to ask about this in advance. It’s your right to have equal access to the interview process, and clear communication is key.
Ask to meet the BSL/English Interpreter ahead of time
Meeting your interpreter before the interview allows you to become familiar with each other’s style of signing or communication. Building rapport and comfort with your Interpreter can help ensure smooth communication during the interview.
Do your research
It’s crucial to do your research about the company. Visit their website to learn about their products, services, and future plans. Your potential employer will be impressed, but it will also help you tailor your responses to match the company’s values and goals.
Read the job description and person specification carefully.
Thoroughly review the job description and person specification provided by the employer. Be clear on the skills and qualities the employer is looking for and refer to them during the interview.
Don’t be afraid to ask the interviewer to repeat themselves
If at any point during the interview you’re unsure about a question or need clarification, don’t be afraid to ask the interviewer to repeat themselves or explain further. Effective communication is a two-way street, and it’s important to ensure you fully understand the questions.
Prepare using the STAR method
When answering interview questions, consider using the STAR method to demonstrate your experience:
- Situation: Describe the situation or challenge you faced.
- Task: Explain the specific task you were assigned.
- Action: Share the action you took to address the situation.
- Result: Discuss the positive outcomes or achievements resulting from your actions.
Have questions of your own
At the end of the interview, be ready with a few thoughtful questions of your own. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and interest in the job. You could ask about the team, company culture, or any specific projects you’d be working on.
Practice, practice, practice
Practice makes perfect, and job interviews are no exception. Enlist the help of someone you trust to do mock interviews with you, or ask Deaf Action’s Employability team. This will help you refine your answers and boost your confidence.
Ask Deaf Action’s Employability team for support
Remember, you don’t have to go through this process alone. Our Employability team is here to assist you every step of the way.