On this page
Before the interview
Often, an employer or recruiter contacts you by email or phone. They may ask if you are free for a short phone call first. This call is usually simple. They check your interest and your experience. Later, you may get an interview in person or by video. Read the job advert again. Think of two or three examples from your past work. It helps to look at the company website. If something is not clear, like the time or place, it is fine to ask.
Thank you for getting in touch. I'm very interested in the role.
Could you tell me who I will be meeting, please?
Is the interview in person or online?
Small talk at the start
Many interviews in Ireland start with a little chat. The interviewer might ask about your journey, the weather or your day. This is normal and friendly. They are helping you relax. You do not need a long answer. A short, warm reply is perfect. Smile, say hello, and shake hands if they offer. If it is a video call, check your sound and camera a few minutes early. People often use first names, so you can use their first name too if they introduce themselves that way.
Nice to meet you. Thanks for having me.
The journey was fine, thanks. It was easy to find.
Yes, the weather is changing a lot today!
Common questions you may hear
A common first question is "Tell me about yourself." Keep it short: your work background, your skills, and why you want this job. Interviewers often ask about times you solved a problem or worked in a team. A simple way to answer is: the situation, what you did, and the result. Try to use real examples. If you worked in another country, that experience counts. Explain it clearly and connect it to this job. Be honest. Speak clearly and calmly, and focus on your examples.
In my last job, I was responsible for...
One example is when a customer was unhappy, and I...
My experience in my home country helped me learn...
When you don't understand or need time
Irish people sometimes speak quickly or use local expressions. Accents can also be new to you. This is completely normal, and it is fine to ask them to repeat. Interviewers usually do not mind at all. It shows you want to give a good answer. You can also take a moment to think before you speak. A short pause is much better than a rushed answer. If you make a mistake, just correct yourself and keep going.
Sorry, could you say that again, please?
Do you mean...? I just want to be sure I understand.
That's a good question. Let me think for a moment.
Ending the interview
Near the end, the interviewer will often ask, "Do you have any questions for us?" It is a good idea to ask one or two. You could ask about the team, a normal day, or the next steps. At the end, thank them for their time. After the interview, many people send a short thank-you email. If you do not hear back for a while, a polite follow-up message is fine. Every interview is good practice, whatever happens.
What does a typical day look like in this role?
What are the next steps in the process?
Thank you for your time. I really enjoyed our conversation.
Common questions
What should I wear to an interview in Ireland?
It depends on the job. Office jobs often mean smart clothes. For cafés, shops or trades, neat and clean clothes are usually fine. If you are not sure, you can politely ask the recruiter or employer what people usually wear.
Is it okay to be nervous?
Yes, almost everyone feels nervous. Interviewers know this. Take a slow breath, speak at a calm speed, and remember that a friendly attitude matters. Practising your answers out loud beforehand can help you feel more relaxed.
Should I talk about my experience from another country?
Yes. Experience from abroad is valuable. Explain what you did in simple words and show how it connects to the new job. Real examples help the interviewer understand your skills.