We want you to feel confident and prepared when attending your interview. The guidance below outlines what you can expect and how you can set yourself up for success.
Before the Interview
Review the Job Details
Re‑read the job description and person specification. Think about how your skills and experience align with what we’re looking for.
Plan Your Examples
Most of our interview questions are competency based. Preparing real examples in advance will help you give clear, structured answers.
Some example questions are:
1. “Tell us about a time you had to manage a challenging situation at work. What did you do, and what was the outcome?”
2. “Describe an example of when you worked effectively as part of a team. What role did you play?”
3. “Give an example of a time you had to prioritise several tasks with competing deadlines. How did you organise your work?”
4. “Tell us about a time you improved a process or solved a problem. What steps did you take, and what impact did it have?”
Using the STAR Technique
To help you present your experience effectively, we recommend using the STAR technique:
- S – Situation: Describe the context or background.
- T – Task: Explain the goal or challenge you needed to address.
- A – Action: Outline the specific actions you took. (Focus on your contribution.)
- R – Result: Share the outcome, what happened, what you learned, or what improved.
Practising your examples using STAR will help you stay concise, focused, and confident during the interview.
During the Interview
Be Yourself
We want to get to know you and understand how your unique experience fits the role.
Take Your Time
It’s fine to pause and think before answering.
Ask Questions
Interviews are a two‑way process. Feel free to ask about the team, the role, or the organisation.
Reasonable Adjustments
If you require any reasonable adjustments, either during the interview or at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know as soon as possible. We're committed to creating an inclusive and supportive experience for all candidates, and adjustments can be made for a wide range of needs.
Examples may include:
- extra time for tasks or assessments
- alternative interview formats
- accessible interview locations
Practical Tips
Plan Your Journey
If attending in person, check travel routes and arrival times.
Test Your Tech
For online interviews, check your device, audio, and connection beforehand.
Bring Any Notes
It’s absolutely fine to refer to notes during the interview.
Inclusive & Supportive Recruitment
South Cambridgeshire District Council is committed to providing an inclusive and supportive recruitment experience, with a strong focus on helping Disabled applicants, Care Leavers, and Members of the Armed Forces into meaningful employment. As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview to candidates who meet the essential criteria and request support through the scheme, and we offer reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process. We also recognise the unique talents and challenges faced by Care Leavers, providing additional support and guidance to help them access opportunities and thrive in the workplace. In support of the Armed Forces Covenant, we actively encourage applications from veterans, reservists and their families, valuing the transferable skills they bring and ensuring fair consideration and tailored support where needed. Together, these commitments help us create a workplace where every candidate has the opportunity to succeed.