Congratulations, you’ve been selected for a job interview!
We know that job interviews can be stressful for anyone. But, no matter how intimidated you might feel, you can gain confidence by being prepared. With the right support, practice and preparation, you can walk into an interview feeling ready and capable.
Research the job you’re applying for
Preparation starts with understanding the job you’re applying for. Reading the job posting carefully helps you identify the skills and experience the employer is looking for. From there, you can think about examples from your own experience that show how you meet those needs. Even volunteer work, training programs, or life experience can be valuable to share.
Practice common interview questions
Practicing interview questions is another important step. Questions like “Tell me about yourself” or “What are your strengths?” can feel difficult if you haven’t prepared. Practicing out loud helps you feel more comfortable and reduces anxiety. At EmployAbilities, employment coaches work one-on-one with clients to practice interviews in a supportive, judgment-free environment.
If you want, you can practice with anyone. Here are some common interview questions:
Common interview questions:
Can you tell me about yourself?
This is often an opening question. Employers are usually looking for a brief overview of your background, skills, and what you’re looking for in a role.Why are you interested in this position?
This helps employers understand your motivation and whether you’ve taken time to learn about the job.What are your strengths?
A chance to highlight skills, qualities, or experiences that relate directly to the role.What are some challenges or areas you’re working on improving?
Employers want honesty and self-awareness. They don’t expect you to be perfect.Can you describe a time you solved a problem or handled a difficult situation?
This helps show how you think, communicate, and respond to challenges.How do you work as part of a team?
Most jobs involve teamwork, and employers want to know how you collaborate with others.How do you handle stress or pressure at work?
This question looks at coping strategies and resilience.What skills or experience make you a good fit for this role?
An opportunity to connect your abilities directly to the job description.What does a successful workday look like to you?
This gives insight into your work style, priorities, and expectations.Do you have any questions for us?
Always prepare at least one question to show interest and engagement.
Disclosing your disability
Many people also worry about how or if they should talk about their disability. There is no single right answer. What matters is that you feel comfortable and confident in how you present yourself. An EmployAbilities coach can help you decide what to share, explain accommodations if needed, and keep the focus on your strengths.
Here are more resources for disclosing your disability:
EmployAbilities is there to help
Confidence also comes from knowing you’re not alone. EmployAbilities provides interview preparation, coaching, and encouragement to help you feel ready for each step of the process.
Learn about EmployAbilities Programs.
