This blog has been written by the Sign for Work team in QLD! Grab a coffee and have a read to learn how to best prepare for your next job interview!
Tia, Employment Coach
Job interviews can be nerve-wracking, and if you’re feeling anxious, it can be harder to highlight your skills, so here are some tips for feeling confident in an interview.
- Practice mock interviews with a parent, teacher, support worker, close friend or colleague and find some common job interview questions (you can find lists online) to think about and practise how you would answer
- Don’t be afraid to ask for adjustments to the process. EAF funding is available for booking interpreters for job interviews, and you can ask for interviews to be held face-to-face instead of over the phone, or if you struggle with written assessments, ask if you can speak/sign your answers instead
- Familiarise yourself with the job description to try and match your skills and experiences to what they are looking for in a candidate. This way you know what you may be asked to do at work and show off what you bring to a team.
- Back yourself. If an employer asks to interview you, that means they’ve seen something they like in your application and want to learn more, so try not to worry about whether you’re not qualified or experienced enough. Everyone starts somewhere.
- If you have questions, ask them! Doesn’t matter if they’re big questions, like “who will I be reporting to?” or small questions like “what do I wear?” because asking them will show how much you’re thinking about working there and that you’re keen to get started.
Mel, Employment Coach
Working with Deaf and Hard of Hearing job seekers has shown me that preparation and confidence are key to a successful interview. While every person’s communication needs are different, taking the time to plan ahead can help participants feel more comfortable and showcase their skills effectively.
One of the first things I do when supporting a Deaf or Hard of Hearing participant is work with both the participant and the employer to ensure the interview is accessible and suited to their communication needs.
This may include an Auslan interpreter, captioning services, a quieter location, or written communication support. Most employers are happy to make reasonable adjustments when they understand what is needed.
I also encourage participants to research the company and the role before attending their interview. Being well prepared helps build confidence and enables them to focus on highlighting their skills, experience, and strengths. Throughout the interview, participants should feel comfortable requesting clarification or asking for a question to be repeated if required. Open and effective communication not only helps ensure questions are understood correctly but also demonstrates professionalism, engagement, and a proactive approach to the interview process.
Cassie, Queensland Hub Manager
Before the interview
- Research the role: Identify the employer’s priorities and prepare examples from work, study or volunteering. Use STAR—Situation, Task, Action, Result—to structure your responses.
- Explain what works for you: Ask for the communication arrangements you need, such as an Auslan interpreter, live captions, written questions, good lighting or a quiet room. Everyone’s preferences are different; choose what supports you.
- Confirm the details: Check the interview format, who will attend and who is organising any agreed support. For online interviews, test your connection, captions and camera beforehand.
During the interview
- Set up for clear communication: Ask interviewers to face you and speak one at a time. Choose a position that gives you a clear view of the panel and interpreter, if applicable.
- Ask for clarification: Try, “Could you repeat or rephrase that question?” or “Could you put that in writing?” There is no need to apologise for seeking clear communication.
- Keep your strengths central: Describe your achievements and relevant skills. If discussing adjustments, explain practically how they help you participate and work effectively.
After the interview
Send a brief thank-you email, reinforce your interest and confirm your preferred contact method.
Useful support: JobAccess provides Australian information about workplace adjustments and employment support.
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