Do
Take a moment to think
A pause can help you find the words you want.
Space to Breathe Therapy · Career Support
Interview do’s and don’ts
Flip through practical ideas for preparing, answering questions and asking for what may help. There is no single right way to interview.
Flip a card to explore
Tap or click any card. The reverse gives a simple explanation and words you could try.
…Don’t
Rush to fill every silence
You are allowed a little thinking space.
Silence can simply mean thinking
You do not have to speak instantly or apologise for pausing.
“Let me think about the best example.”
↻Do
Ask for a question again
Clarifying a question can help you answer it.
Check what they mean
It is fine to ask the interviewer to repeat or explain a question in another way.
“Could you say that another way, please?”
?Don’t
Pretend you understood
You can ask for clarity instead of guessing.
Getting clarity is useful
If a question feels unclear, check which part they would like you to focus on.
“Would you like an example from work or another part of my life?”
▤Do
Use a few notes
Key words can be easier to remember than a script.
Let notes support you
Write down a few examples and questions. You can ask the employer beforehand if you may refer to them.
“I’ve brought a few notes so I don’t miss anything.”
AaDon’t
Memorise every word
A perfect script can be hard to recall under pressure.
Keep the main points
Remember the situation, what you did and what happened. The exact wording can change each time.
Try three prompts: “Where? What did I do? What happened?”
✦Do
Share a real example
Everyday experience can show useful skills too.
Choose something true
Your example could come from work, study, volunteering, caring or everyday life. Say what you learned if things did not go to plan.
“One example that comes to mind is…”
✓Don’t
Make up experience
You can be honest about what you are still learning.
Honesty gives you room to learn
If you have not done something before, explain a related skill or how you would approach learning it.
“I haven’t done that yet, but I’m willing to learn.”
?Do
Ask questions of your own
An interview is also a chance to learn about the job.
Find out what matters to you
Ask about the usual tasks, training, hours, team or support. A short question is enough.
“What does a usual day in this role look like?”
⇄Don’t
Treat it as a one-way test
You are also deciding whether the role suits you.
Your needs and questions count
It is okay to want clear information about what the job involves before deciding if it feels right for you.
“Could you tell me more about the support and training?”
◉Do
Communicate in your own way
Listening and answering matter more than performing.
There is no single way to show interest
You can look where comfortable, move, stim or take notes. You do not have to force eye contact to give a good answer.
Focus on the question and what you want them to know.
•••Don’t
Force yourself to seem “perfect”
You can be yourself and still be prepared.
A real conversation is enough
You do not have to hide every difference or share personal details. Keep your focus on the role and what you can offer.
“I work best when instructions are clear.”
Remember: Take what helps and leave what doesn’t. You can ask for a pause, a repeat or clearer information without explaining everything about yourself.
My interview reminders
Choose a few reminders for yourself. Your notes save in this browser on this device.
Your notes stay in this browser on this device. They are not sent to Space to Breathe Therapy.
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