How to prepare for an interview at Lifeways

Whilst most people think of an interview as a way for a recruiter to see if you’re right for them, it’s also an opportunity for you to see whether the role is right for you. And with the right level of preparation beforehand, you’ll go into your interview feeling ready and more confident.

Clare’s top tips for how to prepare for an interview

Here, Lifeways Recruitment Coordinator Clare Casey shares her top tips for a successful interview with the UK’s largest team of supported living professionals.

"Preparation is key,” says Clare. “When I’m interviewing a candidate, I can tell if the person I’m interviewing has prepared and done their research. This can make a difference between hiring them or not.”

Read Clare’s top tips below, and find more helpful information on finding the right role, applying, and interviewing within our job application guide. 

How to introduce yourself in an interview

Make sure you know the interviewer's name so you know who you’re asking for when you arrive, and so you can address them properly when you meet them.

What documents to bring to the interview

Prepare anything in advance that you need to take with you, such as a form of identity, like your driving licence or passport. 

Also, make sure to print a copy of your most up-to-date CV - you’ll likely be asked specific questions about your employment or education history in your interview, so it’s helpful to have your CV in front of you to confirm any dates or specific information.

Asking important questions in advance

Contact the hiring manager beforehand if you have any questions about the interview process - they’ll be happy to clarify any queries you might have.

Planning out your travel in advance 

Make sure to plan how you’re going to get to the interview and how long this will take, so that you can arrive at the interview with time to spare. 

If you’re driving, plan your route and find an appropriate place to park, or if you’re taking public transport, make sure to allow enough time for any delays.

Re-read the job description and advert

Make sure you are fully aware of the details of the job you’re interviewing for. 

Make sure you’ve thought about how your current skills and experience match up to the job description, and how they’ll help you to bring valuable expertise to the role.

How to research the company before an interview

Have a browse of our website and make yourself familiar with the support we provide,  our company values.

Researching the company is always a good opportunity to find any questions you might have for the person interviewing you. You can find more information about Lifeways as a company here, alongside the support we provide for families and professionals.  Viewing interviews with our current colleagues can also help to provide an idea of our ethos as a company - read why our support worker Charmaine loves working for Lifeways here.

Questions to ask in the interview

Write down any questions you’d like to ask so you have them to hand. 

You might want to know more about what the role entails, what training will be provided, and if there are career progression opportunities available.

Think in advance about your future career goals

Interviewers will often ask if you have any future career goals. Would you like to progress in your role, take on more responsibility, or learn new skills? Note down any questions you have about career development to ask at the end.

Preparing for a virtual interview with Lifeways

Although much of the above is still extremely important and relevant, there are other factors you should consider if your interview is to be conducted virtually. 

One of the most important things to consider is your technology. Make sure you’ve checked the video link is working in advance, that your camera and speakers are set up, and that you’ve fully charged the device that you’re using.

It’s also important to consider your environment. Finding a quiet space to sit during your interview is key to ensuring that you can both hear your interviewer and they can hear you too.

Lifeways online interviews are conducted via Microsoft Teams. It's essential to familiarise yourself with the video platform and check that you’ve received the link to your video interview and confirmed your attendance.

Although your interview is virtual, it’s still important to ensure you’re well-presented. You want your interviewer to see that you’re serious about the position you’re going for, so it’s best to dress as if you were attending in person.

More importantly, remember to relax, be yourself, and remember that everyone gets nervous - it just shows that you care.

“Being your natural self as much as possible will make you more relaxed and come across better. It’s also good to show that you are interested in working for the company," says Matthew Scott, Regional Recruitment Coordinator for Lifeways.

How long does an interview with Lifeways last?

On average, interviews with Lifeways will typically last between 30 minutes to an hour. 

Interview lengths will vary depending on the role, whether any tasks are required, and whether the interview is a first or second stage interview. If you'd like a clearer idea in advance to help plan your time, it's best to get in touch with your hiring manager with any questions.

When will I hear back after my interview?

Typically, you can expect to hear back within one to two weeks, although the exact timeframe will depend on how many other interviews are taking place, whether your interview comes early or late in the hiring process, and the expected start date of the role. However, if in doubt, feel free to ask this question within your interview, as the hiring team should be able to give you an idea of timescales. 

Careers at Lifeways

If you have an upcoming interview, we wish you the best of luck!

If you’re interested in joining Lifeways, head over to our careers page to learn more and browse our current vacancies.