Prepared by Kakuma Youth Research Group

• Write an application letter that emphasizes what makes you uniquely qualified for this opportunity.
• Prepare written materials early, share with others for feedback, revise!
• Research the organization you want to work with before you arrive for an interview. Have a few questions prepared in advance.
• Consider signing up for a training course offered by the organization you are interested in working for or specializing in a related skill.
• Consider starting an email account to submit materials. Some opportunities might require email communication.

Interview preparation: Anticipate questions and practice responses.

• Tell me/ us about yourself.
• What do you know about the work we do here? How did you hear about us?
• What interests you about this organization or position? / Why do you want this job, training course, etc.

Commonly asked interview questions

• Tell me about yourself.
• What do you know about the work we do here? Why you are you interested in this organization?
• Why do you want this opportunity [job/ training/ scholarship]?
• Why do you consider yourself to be the best candidate for this position?
• What will you contribute to this organization?
• What do you see as your strengths and weaknesses?
• How do you see yourself and your community benefitting from this position?
• Tell me about your previous experiences.
  • What have you been doing?
  • What did you like and dislike about that job?
  • Why did you leave?
• What questions do you have for us?

Tips for interviewing

• Speak loudly and clearly.
• Convey confidence nonverbally by maintaining eye contact and good posture.
• Prepare a detailed introduction to yourself with specifics about your status.
• Demonstrate knowledge about the organization.
• Show enthusiasm and interest.
• Emphasize your positive qualities. Acknowledge your weaknesses and how you are working to improve them.
• Be honest. You can only be you!
• Reference relevant experiences.
• Demonstrate your fit with the organization. Connect your interests with the work they do.
• If you are confused, ask for clarification.
• It is ok to say you need a moment to think about a question, rather than answering right away.