A successful interview is a two way process:
The interviewer finds out whether or not you match their requirements. These vary from job to job, but typically
include the following:
- Your intellectual qualities
- Your level of enthusiasm
- Your ability to get on with people
- Your ability to express yourself
- Whether or not you will fit into the organisation
For you this is an opportunity to assess the organisation - are they offering what you want?
Here are some 'Interview Tips' for Students with Learning Disabilities.
- Depending upon the severity of a learning disability, interview planning and preparation presents different
issues. Practice interviews can be arranged by contacting the Careers Support Service. Some students find video
interviews particularly useful. This provides an opportunity to review your performance with a Mentor or Careers
Adviser, and receive valuable feedback.
- Look through the CV or application form that you sent to the employer before you go to the interview in order
to remind yourself of what information you gave about your skills and experience.
- Pre interview nerves may effect your concentration, and you may appear easily distracted. There is some
interesting material available on the emotions that somebody with dyslexia or dyspraxia might experience in an
interview situation. You can always discuss this with a careers adviser or a student counsellor.
- The publication "Dyslexia in the Workplace" is available on CD-Rom from the Careers Service. Chapter 16
'Coping Strategies' will be of particular use.
- It is important to remember that interviewers are looking for signs such as good eye contact and other body
language 'cues'. If your disability means that your body language may differ from other candidates, you may need
to be aware of how this will affect your interview performance.
- It is acceptable to ask for a moment or two to think about the question and if neessary ask for it to be
repeated or clarified.
- Remember, be positive, be yourself, and be enthusiastic. Preparation, practice, and planning are keys to success.
Students with disabilities should have early and frequent contact with the Careers Service. The Careers
Support Service was set up to address the individual and diverse needs of students with disabilities. Click
on Career Appointments to arrange a meeting.
The following web sites provide helpful advice on this area:
- Student counselling website
- Interview preparation information
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