Interview Preparation

An interview is a common method of assessment when evaluating candidates for appointment to a career opportunity. It is your opportunity to elaborate on the content of your application and demonstrate your ability to perform the duties and requirements of the position.

The following information will help you prepare for an interview with the Newfoundland and Labrador Public Service.

Understand the Format

When you are contacted for an interview, confirm if other methods of assessment will be included in the evaluation such as written exercises, presentations, electronic testing, or work samples. You should also ask if you are required to provide any relevant documentation.

Accommodations

If there is an accommodation or adjustment that you require at the interview stage of the recruitment process, please contact us at recruitment@gov.nl.ca, 709-729-0130 or toll free at 1-888-729-7690. Video Relay Service (VRS) calls are welcomed. For common potential accommodations and adjustments during the interview process, click here.

Review the Career Opportunity Ad

Review the ad carefully prior to your interview. Be prepared to demonstrate how your education, experience and skills align with the duties and Assessment Criteria section of career ad. Consider any transferable skills you have that could be relevant to the position. Questions or requests for clarification can be submitted using the contact information provided in the ad.

Research the Employer

Review employer information including current initiatives, and structure. This will help you align your responses with the employer’s requirements. It will also help you understand how the position fits within the broader organization and identify questions you may like to ask during the interview process. Candidates can find a list of Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Departments and Agencies here.

The Day of the Interview

Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the interview location. Interview locations generally have special entry requirements for visitors so ensure that you are familiar with your interview location’s entry process in advance. If you are unable to keep your scheduled interview time, be sure to contact the interviewers as soon as possible to make them aware.

During the Interview

Communication

The interview is your opportunity to display your qualifications including your ability to exchange information, and your interpersonal skills. Try your best to answer the question directly, communicate clearly, and engage with the interviewer when responding. Let the interviewer know if you need a question repeated or require time to consider a question before replying.

Manage Your Time

Be aware of the time allotted for the interview and the number of questions that will be asked. This will help you focus and stay on track. Keep your responses clear, concise, and focused, however, include enough information to clearly demonstrate your relevant qualifications.

Interview Questions

• Knowledge based questions assess one or more of the assessment criteria identified in the career ad for which you have applied. Consider your response in relation to the assessment criteria and include relevant skills, experience, and knowledge. Be as specific as possible.
• Situational/scenario questions present you with a hypothetical scenario. If you have encountered a similar scenario then you should include this in your response. When considering your response think about objectives, considerations, and requirements that may relate to the specific scenario.
• Behavioral questions allow you to draw on prior experiences and behaviors. They typically assess requirements of the position based on previous patterns of behavior. Your response should also consider what you may have learned from the experience, and how you have applied that learning or would apply that learning in the future.

Keep in Mind

The interviewers will assess your ability to perform the duties of the position for which you have applied. Where possible, focus on how your experience and qualifications have enabled you to be successful in your current or previous positions, and have prepared you to succeed in the career opportunity for which you have applied. Remember to inform the interviewers of relevant volunteer experience, life experience, or additional training or education.

You may have the opportunity to ask some questions at the end of the interview to determine if this position is the right fit for you.