How to prepare for your interview

Arts Council interviews are competency based. Questions are aligned with the grade of the role.

During your interview, you can demonstrate your skills using examples that reflect your interest, suitability and vision for the role.

A panel sits and speaks on stage in front of a large screen at Festival Makers Conference 2023
Panel discussion at Festival Makers Conference 2023. Photo: Emilija Jefremova.

Making the most of your interview opportunity

1. Be informed

Re-read the job description and candidate information booklet. Review your CV and be ready to discuss how your experience matches our requirements. Be clear about your interest in the role, and what you can bring to the Arts Council.

2. Responsibilities review

Go over the competencies for the role and grade in the Candidate Information Booklet. Familiarise yourself with the Arts Council’s work.

3. Competencies review

Go over the competencies for the role and grade in the Candidate Information Booklet. Familiarise yourself with the Arts Council’s work. 

4. Check your information

Note the date and time of your interview. If you are asked to send a presentation in advance, please note its due date.

5. Prepare to shine!

You will be asked to explain your experience and skills using examples from current/previous work experience. We recommend the STAR method to structure your responses to these questions: the Situation you had to deal with; the Task you were given; the Action you took; and the Result of your action, and what you learned from the experience.

6. Got a question?

We want you to feel relaxed, and actively listen as well as respond. An interview is a two-way conversation, so feel free to ask the panel any questions.

Attending your interview

In-person interview

In-person interviews are held at the Arts Council, 70 Merrion Square South, Dublin 2. You are interviewed in person by a panel of experts whose questions allow you to demonstrate your skills, experiences, and help identify if you are suitable for the role.

You will receive a link to access the interview via Zoom or Teams. You are interviewed over a live video link by a panel of experts whose questions allow you to demonstrate your skills, experiences, and help identify if you are suitable for the role.

We recommend you test your internet connection, audio and video in advance. If a technical issue arises, don’t panic! We will do our best to resolve the issue and continue with the interview.

Arts Council staff speaks with artists and the public at Meet the Arts Council at the Complex
Meet the Arts Council at the Complex, Dublin. Photo: Ger Holland.