Getting ready for a first job interview can feel daunting, especially without access to careers guidance. That’s why Avencia Talent Solutions volunteered our time and recruitment expertise to support National Interview Week, an initiative built to give young people practical interview experience before they take their first steps into the world of work.
National Interview Week is aimed at students aged 16 to 17 from state-educated schools, many from disadvantaged backgrounds where careers guidance and interview preparation aren’t always easy to come by. The goal is simple: give these students real interview practice and honest, useful feedback so they feel more prepared when the moment counts.
Each student took part in a one-to-one video interview lasting 15 to 20 minutes, focused on three core competencies: communication, problem solving and leadership. Afterwards, students received personalised feedback against each of these areas and had the chance to ask our volunteers questions about recruitment, interview technique and career planning.
Our volunteers each committed to a minimum of four interviews per session, using competency-based questions to assess how students approached each area. At the end of every interview, students were encouraged to turn the tables and ask their own questions, giving our team the opportunity to share practical, real-world advice on interview preparation and career pathways.
Many of the students had never experienced a formal interview before, and competency-based questions were unfamiliar territory for most of them. That gave our volunteers a genuine opportunity to add value, introducing students to the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) so they could structure clear, evidence-based answers, even with limited work experience to draw on.
What stood out most was the students’ enthusiasm. They engaged with curiosity, asked thoughtful questions and took feedback on board without hesitation. It was a reminder that even a short conversation can leave a lasting impression on a young person’s confidence.
As recruitment specialists, we see every day what employers are looking for, and we know how much of a difference early guidance can make. In a challenging economic climate, entry-level opportunities are more competitive than ever, and many young people simply don’t have access to the kind of support that helps them stand out. Our director, Laura Muir, had this to say:
My colleagues and I thoroughly enjoyed volunteering our time to support these students and help prepare them for future interviews. Young people need this kind of support now more than ever, as entry-level opportunities become increasingly competitive and difficult to secure. If we were able to make even the smallest positive difference to their confidence or approach to future interviews, then it was time incredibly well spent. It was a hugely rewarding experience, and we’re proud to have played a small part in helping the next generation take their first steps into the world of work. We look forward to supporting this fantastic initiative again next year.
Being part of National Interview Week gave our team the chance to put that expertise to good use outside of our usual day-to-day work. If we helped even a handful of students feel a bit more confident walking into their next interview, then the time was well spent.
If you are interested in our work, contact our team to learn more about Avencia Talent Solutions.
