Predicting likely question (and preparing questions to ask)
Once you reach the interview stage of the selection process, you are more in control of your destiny, as thorough interview preparation almost always pays dividends.
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Using AI to predict likely questions
You can use Artificial Intelligence to help predict likely questions. It’s important to write your prompt carefully (and include attachments). For example, you could upload the job description and degree apprenticeship advice documents and then ask: “I have an interview for a Laboratory Scientist Degree Apprenticeship with AstraZeneca. Looking at the attached information, could you please suggest 30 questions I am likely to be asked?”
Prepare answers to common questions
There are lots of other questions that come up frequently during interviews and you can prepare answers to these questions using the STAR technique. For example: Tell about a time:
When you had to adapt to a big change.
When you solved a problem.
You worked well within a team.
When you suffered a significant setback.
When you achieved something about which you’re very proud.
When you learned from a mistake.
Why should we employ you?
It’s unlikely that you will be asked this exact question. However, it’s highly likely you will be asked a similar question during the course of your interview process. Here are the kinds of things you could say (without sounding arrogant):
“I’m hardworking, and I don’t shy away from challenges. For example, since the age of 16 I have balanced schoolwork with a part-time job, and I have thrived in both settings.”
“I’m a fast learner. I pick things up quickly, especially when I can apply them in practice. For instance, when I did work experience, I learned how to use the company’s new software in a couple of days.”
“I’m punctual and never take time off. In fact, I’ve had 100% attendance since the start of year 10.”
“I take initiative. I don’t wait to be told what to do - if I see something that needs doing, I’ll happily take the reins.”
What are your weaknesses?
This is another typical question, and you need to prepare your answer carefully. If you say that “your attention to detail is poor” or that “you’re moody in the mornings”, this could scupper your chances. Here are some different, more cunning, approaches to answering this question:
Talk about a historical weakness that ultimately became a strength. For example, “I used to be a poor public speaker, so I joined a debating society to improve my confidence in this area.”
Talk about something that may be considered a strength too. For example, “I’m definitely a people pleaser, which means that, sometimes, I struggle to say no.”
Ask questions
During any interview, you will get the chance to ask questions. Typically, at the end of almost all interviews, you will be asked, “do you have any questions?”. It’s essential you have pre-prepared some questions. By asking astute, thoughtful, well-researched questions, you will come across as engaged and enthusiastic.
Here are some question ideas (which you will be able to improve upon by making them company specific):
What does a typical day look like for a first-year apprentice?
What's the biggest challenge someone in this role might face?
Are there opportunities to rotate through different functional areas within the business?
What are the long-term career opportunities for a successful degree apprentice?
What qualities do you think successful people in this company possess?
What are some of the key business challenges the company is currently focused on?
Top tip
Searching questions that show you have researched the companies in-depth cannot be beaten. For example, during an Amazon interview you could ask about Project Leo (their satellite Internet division).
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