Preparing for your interview in the sport and physical activity sector
Welcome to the gateway to your future in the vibrant world of sport and physical activity. Whether you’re an experienced professional looking to transition or a newcomer eager to dive into this dynamic industry, success begins with preparation.
Once you’ve tailored your CV and applied successfully, the next step is face to face. Here’s your guide to acing that interview.
Before the interview
Research the organisation
- Understand the organisation’s mission, values and the specific role you’re applying for within the sports sector.
- Familiarise yourself with recent achievements, projects and any notable news related to the organisation.
Know the industry
- Stay updated on current trends, challenges and innovations within the sport and physical activity sector.
- Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with industry demands and future developments.
Review your skills and experience
- Identify key your achievements and experiences relevant to the role. Make note of any qualifications or relevant volunteer work that you can bring up in your interview.
- Prepare concrete examples that demonstrate your ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
During the interview
Showcase your passion
- Express your genuine enthusiasm for sports and physical activity. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your commitment.
- Demonstrate your understanding of the impact and importance of sports in promoting health, teamwork and community engagement.
Highlight transferable skills
- Emphasise skills such as leadership, communication, teamwork and problem-solving. Illustrate how these skills are applicable to the role you are applying for and the sport and physical activity sector as a whole.
- Discuss specific scenarios where you successfully applied these skills in previous roles or projects.
Be prepared for behavioural questions
- Anticipate questions that assess your ability to handle challenges, work under pressure and collaborate effectively within a team.
- Use the STAR method (situation, task, action, result) to structure your responses and provide concrete examples of your achievements.
Show your interest
- Ask insightful questions about the organisation’s culture, opportunities for professional development and the team dynamics.
- Express your interest in contributing to the organisation’s goals and how you can add value to their mission.
Clarify expectations
- Seek clarity on the role’s responsibilities, performance metrics and opportunities for growth within the organisation and sector.
- Understand the organisation’s vision for the future and how your skills align with their strategic objectives.
After the interview
Follow up
- Send a thank-you email or message on LinkedIn expressing your appreciation for the opportunity to interview.
- Reiterate your interest in the position and briefly summarise why you believe you are a strong fit for the role.
Reflect and learn
- Evaluate your interview performance and identify areas for improvement. If you are unsuccessful, the hiring manager may be willing to provide feedback on what you could have done better.
- Stay proactive by continuing to network within the industry and pursuing further professional development opportunities.
Embrace your journey
Your interview in the sport and physical activity sector is not just about securing a job – it’s about joining a passionate community dedicated to promoting health, wellbeing and athletic excellence. Embrace this exciting opportunity to showcase your skills, share your passion and embark on a fulfilling career path in sports. Good luck!
If you would like to learn more about preparing for interviews in the sport and physical activity sector, Skill360 are able to help with their interview and CV guidance e-learning.