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Answering interview questions | Interview skills | Birmingham City Council

Answering interview questions

You cannot prepare for every question, but these tips will help you give clear answers.

Listen carefully

Focus on the question. If you did not hear it properly, ask the interviewer to repeat it.

Understand the question

Think about why the interviewer is asking. What do they want to know?

Take your time

Pause before you speak. It is better to think for a moment than to rush and give a poor answer.

Stay on track

If you lose focus or start to ramble, stop and say: “I’m sorry, I need a moment to gather my thoughts.”.
Then continue with a clear answer.

Give examples

Use examples from your experience to show your skills.

Even if they do not ask for examples, include them when relevant.

Expand on closed questions

If you are asked a yes or no question, do not stop there. Add detail and examples to show your ability.

Tell the truth

Do not lie or exaggerate. You could be asked to prove what you say.


Page last updated: 31 December 2025

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