Landing a job interview in the UK as an international applicant is an exciting achievement—but it can also come with a unique set of challenges. From understanding cultural expectations to navigating the nuances of British workplace etiquette, there’s a lot to consider. But don’t worry—we’ve put together a practical guide to help you prepare with confidence and make a strong impression.
1. Understand the UK Interview Style
British interviews tend to be professional, structured, and polite. You can expect:
A formal tone—interviewers are usually courteous and may start with small talk before diving in.
Competency-based questions—where you’ll be asked to provide examples of how you’ve demonstrated specific skills.
A focus on teamwork, adaptability, and communication, especially for roles in collaborative environments.
📌 Tip: Familiarise yourself with the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly and effectively.
2. Research the Company and Role Thoroughly
Don’t just skim the website—really dive into:
The company’s mission, values, and culture.
Recent news, achievements, or projects.
The specific responsibilities of the role and how your experience matches them.
This not only helps you answer questions with relevance, but also shows genuine interest in the company.
3. Know the Common UK Interview Questions
Prepare to answer questions like:
“Tell me about yourself.”
“Why do you want to work here?”
“Describe a time you overcame a challenge at work.”
“What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
“What do you know about our company?”
Practising these aloud (ideally with a friend or mentor) can boost your confidence.
4. Be Aware of Cultural Differences
Understanding workplace norms in the UK can help you blend in more easily:
Politeness and professionalism are valued highly—avoid being overly informal.
Modesty is appreciated, even when discussing achievements.
Punctuality is crucial—arrive at least 5–10 minutes early if it’s in person or log in a few minutes before for virtual interviews.
If you’re not a native English speaker, it may also help to review British idioms and phrases, as well as typical business terminology.
5. Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Asking insightful questions shows initiative and engagement. You might ask:
“What does success look like in this role after six months?”
“Can you tell me about the team I’d be working with?”
“What are the next steps in the hiring process?”
Avoid questions about salary or benefits in early rounds—these are better saved for later stages unless the interviewer brings it up.
6. Sort Out the Practical Details
Check your visa/work eligibility and be ready to discuss your right to work in the UK.
For virtual interviews, test your tech (camera, microphone, internet connection) and make sure your surroundings are quiet and professional.
Dress smartly—even for remote interviews, first impressions matter.
7. Follow Up After the Interview
Sending a polite thank-you email within 24 hours is a nice touch. Keep it short and sincere—thank them for their time, express enthusiasm for the role, and briefly reiterate your fit.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for a UK job interview as an international applicant may feel a bit daunting, but with the right approach and preparation, you can stand out for all the right reasons. Focus on being professional, authentic, and well-informed—and remember, every interview is also a learning experience.
Good luck—you’ve got this!
In partnership with Holmes & Partners Ltd, a leading solicitor firm with OISC Registration: F202000183.