A Practical Guide for Candidates from Shepherd Stubbs Recruitment.

Securing an interview is a significant achievement – it means your experience, skills, and potential have already impressed an employer. The interview is your opportunity to bring your CV to life, demonstrate your value and decide whether the role is right for you.

At Shepherd Stubbs, we work closely with both clients and candidates, so we understand what employers are really looking for. Below is our comprehensive interview guide to help you feel prepared, confident and ready to succeed.

 

1. Preparation Is Everything

The strongest candidates are always the best prepared.

Research the Company

Before your interview, make sure you:

• Understand what the company does (products, services, sector)
• Review their website and social media
• Familiarise yourself with their values and culture
• Understand the role and how it fits within the organisation

Preparation allows you to tailor your answers and demonstrate genuine interest.

Understand the Job Description

Carefully review:

• Key responsibilities
• Required skills
• Desired experience

Prepare examples from your own experience that clearly demonstrate how you meet these criteria.

 

2. Prepare Your Answers

While you can’t predict every question, you can prepare for common themes.

Common Interview Questions

• Tell me about yourself
• Why are you interested in this role?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• Why are you leaving your current role?
• Where do you see yourself in five years?

Use the STAR Method

For competency-based questions, structure your answers using:

• Situation – Brief context
• Task – Your responsibility
• Action – What you did
• Result – The outcome

This keeps answers clear, structured, and impactful.

 

3. Make a Strong First Impression

First impressions matter – and they happen quickly.

• Dress appropriately for the company culture (when in doubt, slightly smarter is better)
• Arrive 10–15 minutes early
• Offer a firm handshake (if appropriate)
• Maintain good eye contact
• Smile and show enthusiasm

If the interview is on Teams / Zoom, etc:

• Test your technology beforehand
• Choose a quiet, well-lit space
• Log in a few minutes early

 

4. Communicate with Confidence

You don’t need to be perfect — but you do need to be clear and authentic.

• Speak clearly and at a measured pace
• Listen carefully to questions
• Take a moment to think before answering
• Avoid interrupting
• Keep answers focused and relevant

If you don’t understand a question, it’s absolutely fine to ask for clarification.

 

5. Demonstrate Your Value

Employers are hiring to solve a problem. Your goal is to show how you can help.

Highlight:

• Achievements (with measurable results where possible)
• Problem-solving abilities
• Teamwork and communication skills
• Initiative and adaptability

Whenever possible, quantify results:

• “Increased sales by 20%”
• “Reduced processing time by 30%”
• “Managed a team of 6”

Specific examples are far more powerful than general statements.

 

6. Prepare Questions to Ask

An interview is a two-way conversation. Thoughtful questions demonstrate engagement and professionalism.

Consider asking:

• What does success look like in this role?
• What are the immediate priorities?
• How would you describe the team culture?
• What are the next steps in the process?

Avoid asking about salary and benefits in a first interview unless the employer raises the topic.

 

7. Manage Nerves Effectively

Feeling nervous is normal — even experienced professionals do.

To manage nerves:

• Practice answers aloud
• Do a mock interview
• Prepare bullet-point notes
• Take slow, steady breaths beforehand
• Reframe nerves as positive energy

Confidence comes from preparation.

 

8. After the Interview

Your professionalism shouldn’t end when the interview does.

• Thank the interviewer for their time
• Send a polite follow-up email (if appropriate)
• Reflect on what went well and what you could improve

Every interview is valuable experience.

 

Final Thoughts

Interviews are not about being flawless – they’re about being prepared, professional and authentic. Employers are looking for capability, attitude and cultural fit just as much as technical skills.

At Shepherd Stubbs, we’re here to support you at every stage of your job search journey. If you have an upcoming interview and would like tailored advice or guidance, our team is always happy to help.

Good luck – you’ve got this!