Job interviews can be nerve-wracking, especially if it’s your first time, or if you’re living with disability and wondering how to explain your needs. The good news is that you don’t have to face it alone. With a little planning and the right support in place, you can walk into your interview feeling confident and ready to shine.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare for your next interview, tailored for NDIS participants looking to move into employment.
Before your interview, take time to:
If you’re not sure what the role involves, ask your employment provider, support worker, or a family member to talk it through with you.
Tip: If you’ve volunteered before or had unpaid experience (like helping at a community centre), that still counts!
Here are a few questions you might be asked, and how to prepare for them:
| Common Question | What They’re Looking For |
|---|---|
| “Tell me about yourself.” | A short summary of your background, interests, and goals |
| “Why do you want this job?” | Interest in the role or company |
| “What are your strengths?” | Examples of what you’re good at (e.g. reliable, friendly, organised) |
| “Tell me about a challenge and how you managed it.” | How you respond to difficulty or problem-solving |
| “Do you work better in a team or on your own?” | Self-awareness and adaptability |
You don’t have to give perfect answers, just be honest and clear. Practising with someone you trust can help reduce nerves and boost confidence.
What you wear doesn’t have to be fancy, just clean, neat, and appropriate for the job. Think:
Plan your transport ahead of time:
If transport is a barrier, your NDIS plan might fund travel training or support to attend the interview.
You don’t have to tell your employer everything about your disability, but if you need adjustments to do the job, it’s helpful to be upfront.
Examples of workplace adjustments:
You can say something like:
“I’m great at staying focused when I have a written list of tasks. That really helps me work at my best.”
If you need help preparing how to talk about this, your social worker or employment provider can support you.
It’s okay to bring a small notebook with reminders — such as:
You can also bring:
This shows you’ve come prepared, which employers appreciate.
After the interview:
Remember, every interview is a valuable experience, even if it doesn’t lead to a role right away.
We help NDIS participants:
Whether it’s your first interview or your fifth, we’re here to support your journey, at your pace, and in a way that works for you.
Contact us today to get started with personalised, strengths-based employment support.
