Interview Formats

Same questions. Different setting. Your pace.

Not every interview happens in a suit across a desk anymore.

Some are over the phone.

Some are video calls from your bedroom.

Some are in-person, with a handshake and a waiting room full of nerves.

Each format has its own challenges.

And if you’re someone who’s been out of work, living with trauma or navigating the world as a neurodivergent person — the unknowns can feel heavy.

But here’s the good news: you can plan for them.

You can make them work for you.

And you’re allowed to ask for what you need along the way.

This chapter breaks it all down, format by format — with practical tips and soft reminders to help you feel more grounded, not more overwhelmed.

The “let’s have a quick chat” kind — often short, often sudden.

Before the call:

Find a quiet space if you can — even a hallway, a parked car or a closed bathroom door
Have your CV in front of you and a glass of water
Take a breath before picking up — three seconds can reset your body

During the call:

Speak slower than usual — it gives you space to think and makes your answers clearer
Smile when you talk — yes, really — it helps your voice sound warm and steady
It’s completely okay to say: “Let me think for a moment”

After:

Jot down what stood out, what felt tricky and anything you want to follow up on
You can send a quick message like: “Thanks for the call today — I appreciated the opportunity to speak.”

Often more structured, but can still feel awkward — especially if you're not used to seeing yourself on camera.

Before the call:

Sit near natural light if you can, or place a lamp behind your laptop
Choose a calm background — a blank wall, curtain, bookshelf — doesn’t need to be perfect
Test your microphone, camera and link ahead of time
Keep your CV, application and key notes open or printed nearby

During the interview:

Look at the camera now and then, but don’t stress if you glance away
Speak clearly, and pace yourself — don’t rush to fill silence
If you need to, say: “I sometimes look away while I think — just how I process.”

When you’re going to the workplace itself — maybe for the first time in years.

Before the interview:

Plan your route the night before, including public transport or parking
Pack your essentials: CV, water, tissues, lip balm, notebook
Choose clothes that make you feel tidy and safe — it doesn’t have to be a suit, just clean and calm
Try to arrive 10–15 minutes early to give yourself space to settle

During the interview:

Soft smile or a head nod when you arrive — whatever feels doable
If remembering names is hard, repeat the interviewer’s name when they introduce themselves
You can bring and refer to notes — that’s not unprofessional, it’s prepared

Accommodations aren’t about special treatment — they’re about equity.

You have the right to ask for support that helps you bring your best self to the table.

Here are some things you can ask for:

How to ask: You don’t need a diagnosis. Just clarity.

Try this:

“I process information differently, so it would help if I could have the questions in writing or take a few extra seconds to answer.”

Or:

“I find interviews easier in a quiet setting. Is there a private room or low-stimulus space available?”

If they say no — that’s useful data, too. The right employer wants you to feel supported.

Format	Before the Interview	During the Interview	Bonus Tip
Phone	Find quiet, keep CV nearby, breathe	Speak slowly, smile when you talk, pause if needed	Follow up with a quick thank-you message
Video	Test tech, tidy space, open notes	Glance at camera, speak clearly, use notes	Mention if you look away to process info
In-Person	Plan your route, pack essentials, choose safe outfit	Arrive early, repeat names, refer to notes if helpful	Ask to write things down during the interview