Job interviews can feel stressful, but good preparation makes a big difference. These simple tips are written for deaf and hard of hearing jobseekers and can help you feel confident and ready.
Practise short answers for questions like “Tell me about yourself” and “Why do you want this job”. Preparation helps you feel calm and confident in a job interview.
Before the interview, decide what you need. This may include an Auslan interpreter, captions or a quiet room. Knowing this early helps the employer support you.
If you use Auslan, you can ask for an interpreter for the interview. Many employers will organise this. It helps create a deaf friendly interview.
You can share your needs before the interview or during it. Talking about your hearing needs can help the employer plan support, but the choice is up to you.
Prepare one or two clear sentences, such as “I use Auslan and communicate best with an interpreter” or “I am hard of hearing and prefer captions or written notes.”
Tell the employer what you are good at. Give short examples of skills such as teamwork, problem solving or reliability. This helps them understand what you can bring to the job.
Questions like “What does a normal day look like” or “Is training available” show that you are interested in the role.
If asked, explain what helps you work well. This might include captions, written instructions, or interpreters for meetings. These are normal workplace adjustments.
Plan how to get there and arrive a little early. This gives you time to settle and feel ready.
Think about what went well and what you want to improve next time. This helps build confidence and interview skills.
How Sign for Work can help
Sign for Work supports deaf and hard of hearing jobseekers with interview practice, communication planning, workplace adjustments and interpreter support. Our service is free.