Interview advice
Prepare to show what you can bring
Approach your interview with clear examples, informed questions and an understanding of how the role contributes to the organisation's purpose.
Preparation
Research with purpose
Charity panels expect you to understand the organisation's work, not just the job description. Focused research is what separates a good interview from a strong one.
- Read the organisation's annual report or impact report for its priorities, funding and recent achievements.
- Look at who they work with—communities, partners and funders—and how they describe the people they support.
- Re-read the person specification and prepare an example for each essential criterion.
- Check who is on the panel where you can, and note the mix of operational, governance and service perspectives.
- Prepare a clear, honest answer to 'why this organisation?' that goes beyond the cause being worthwhile.
Interview formats
What to expect on the day
Charity interviews are usually panel based and structured, with the same questions asked of every candidate.
Competency questions
Questions asking for real examples. Use a simple structure: the situation, what you did and what resulted.
Values-based questions
Questions exploring how you work with people, handle boundaries and reflect the organisation's values in practice.
Task or presentation
A short exercise such as a presentation, written task or scenario. Follow the brief precisely and keep to time.
Key takeaway
Panels are looking for evidence and values, not perfection. Prepare examples and you will interview with confidence.
Answering well
Give evidence, not intentions
Panels score what you have actually done. Keep answers specific, recent and focused on your own contribution.
- Set the scene briefly, then spend most of your answer on your actions and the outcome.
- Say 'I' rather than 'we' when describing your own contribution, while still crediting the team.
- Use numbers where you have them—people supported, funds raised, time saved, targets met.
- Include what you learned or would do differently; panels value honest reflection.
- If you do not have direct experience, describe the closest comparable example and how you would approach the task.
Your questions
Questions worth asking the panel
Thoughtful questions show genuine interest and help you decide whether the role is right for you.
- What would success in this role look like in the first six to twelve months?
- How is the post funded, and what is the outlook beyond the current funding period?
- How does this role contribute to the organisation's strategy or impact goals?
- What does support, supervision and development look like for this post?
- How does the team work day to day, including hybrid or flexible arrangements?
- What are the next steps and when can I expect to hear from you?
Common questions
Interview questions we are asked most
Can I ask for reasonable adjustments?
Yes. Tell the organiser what would help—questions in advance, extra time, a different format or an accessible venue. Requests are routine and should not affect how you are scored.
Are interview questions shared in advance?
Increasingly, yes. Many charities send questions or themes beforehand to make the process fairer. If they are not offered, it is reasonable to ask.
How should I discuss salary?
Most charity roles advertise a fixed scale and starting point, so there is often limited negotiation. Ask about the scale, progression and any additional benefits.
What should I do after the interview?
Note what went well while it is fresh, and ask for feedback if you are unsuccessful. Most charity employers will give it and it strengthens your next application.
Candidate support
More candidate advice
Working in the Charity Sector
Understand the organisations, professions and language of the sector before you apply.
Read the guideChanging Career
See how skills built in other industries translate into charity-sector roles.
Read the guideApplication Advice
Work through person specifications, evidence and motivation with practical guidance.
Read the guideCV Advice
Structure, tailor and evidence a CV that charity employers can read quickly.
Read the guide
Next step
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