Perfect your criminal justice interview
A job interview is your chance to shine – to show your skills and understanding of the criminal justice sector and the specific role. To maximise your chances, it is important to make an effort and prepare yourself properly before the interview.
At Sanctuary Criminal Justice, we've talked to employers to find out some more information about what they expect from interviewees and what questions they might ask during the interview.
It is important to remember that this is not a concrete list of questions that you will be asked. It simply gives you an idea of the topics that may come up and how you should prepare.
Remember, preparation time spent researching the company is time well spent.
Preparation
Find out as much as you can about the role. Talk to your Sanctuary Criminal Justice consultant, but also take the time to research the employer. Have they received any press coverage? Are they known for any successes or innovations? Has the relevant director or senior manager been interviewed anywhere?
Also, think about the role and spend time making sure you understand the job description. If possible, try to match appropriate examples from your own practice to each requirement. Check to see if there has been any recent research or new policies in that area of practice.
Think about your own expertise and prepare some examples of successes or complex cases that show your skills, professionalism and practice approach.
Download our interview preparation sheet
Presentation
First impressions count, so make sure that you are prompt – or even better aim to be a little early. It is also important that you dress smartly. This doesn’t necessarily mean a formal suit, but it does mean avoiding casual clothes.
Remember to take a notebook and pen with you. Making notes will help you remember important points and will show that you are taking it seriously. Holding a pen may also reduce any nervous fidgeting.
Your notebook could also have a list of questions you want to ask. We recommend making some of these about the department’s approach and workload, rather than just about pay and hours. If your questions have been answered in the interview, simply say so and refer back to your notes to confirm the answers.
