PublicServicePathway
Interview Preparation Checklist
Everything to have ready before your publicjobs competency interview. Tick as you go.
Before the day
- Re-read the job specification and note every capability listed
- Match at least one strong example to each capability
- Confirm three or four flexible examples from the last three to five years
- Write each example in STAR shape and time it out loud to about 90 seconds
- Prepare one honest course-correction for each example
- Note the format of the interview and how long it will run
Your examples
- Each example has a specific situation with real stakes
- Each answer leads with what I personally did, using "I"
- Each answer closes on a checkable result or a lasting change
- I can re-angle each example to two or more capabilities
- None of my examples rely on outdated or half-remembered detail
Logistics
- I know the time, location or video link, and who to contact
- Travel or tech is tested in advance, with time to spare
- Any documents requested are printed or uploaded
- A quiet space and stable connection are sorted (if remote)
- Water, notes and a copy of the job spec are to hand
On the day
- Take a breath and name the capability before each answer
- Keep Situation and Task short; spend most time on Action
- Treat follow-up questions as chances to add detail, not threats
- Watch the clock: aim for 90 seconds to two minutes per answer
- Finish each answer on the result, not on effort