Say your answer out loud, because answers that sound fine in your head often run for five minutes. Start with Tell us about yourself and aim for under a minute: your qualification, one thing you've done that fits, why you applied. Then practise the set that fits your post. There's a government panel set, a retail, service and security set, and a first job set.
What is a government panel interview like?
You usually sit in front of a panel, and each member asks a set question. They score your answers against what the post needs, so the duties in the advert are your best study guide. Learn what the department does, and the laws the advert names.
Some departments add tests. Circular 39 says all shortlisted candidates in many departments do two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise and an integrity assessment. It also warns that some won't pay your transport, accommodation or meals to attend, so plan for that.
What should I bring?
Whatever your invitation says. In many public service adverts, certified copies of your qualifications and documents are asked for only at this stage, on or before the day of the interview. The Z83 says departments must accept certifications up to 6 months old, unless the advert gives a longer period. Bring your original ID too, and the advert with its reference number.
What should I say about pay?
Know the figure first. For a government post, it's in the advert. For a private post, use our salary tool to work out what you need, ask what the range is, and say whether your number is gross. Interviews are free: nobody should charge you for one.
Questions people ask
How long should an interview answer be?
One to two minutes for most questions. Use a real example: what the situation was, what you did and what happened. Stop when you've answered.
What do I say if I don't know the answer?
Say so, and say how you'd find out. A panel prefers that to a guess, especially on a law or procedure.
Does it record me or send my answers?
No. The tool doesn't use your microphone or send anything. It only shows the questions and a timer.
What are the Batho Pele principles?
They're the public service's service standards, such as courtesy, access to services and value for money. Adverts name them, so read them on your department's site before a panel interview.
Sources
Checked 2 November 2026.