Interviews can feel intense—especially if it’s your first one or you really want the role. Whether you’re applying for a casual job, a summer lifeguard position, a uni placement, or even a leadership opportunity through Surf Life Saving Queensland, walking into an interview with confidence can set you apart from the crowd.
Good news: confidence isn’t something you’re born with. It comes from preparation, self-awareness, and knowing how to play to your strengths. Here’s how to walk into any interview feeling calm, ready, and professional (without losing your personality along the way).
What to Say: Tell your story, not just your skills
The interviewer wants to know who you are—so speak with clarity, confidence, and authenticity. You don’t need to have a polished script, but you do want to be prepared with some key messages.
Start strong:
- Have a short introduction ready, often called your “elevator pitch.”
- Example: “I’m currently studying at [school/university], and I’m actively involved in Surf Life Saving with [your club]. Through my patrol and training experiences, I’ve developed strong teamwork and decision-making skills, which I think would translate well to this role.”
Highlight transferable skills:
- Even if the job is unrelated to lifesaving, you’ve got plenty of relevant experience.
- Talk about times you worked in a team, took initiative, led a patrol, managed a conflict, or responded in an emergency.
Structure your responses with the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result):
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“When I was leading a patrol during a busy Sunday, a swimmer got caught in a rip (Situation). I coordinated the response and delegated roles (Task and Action), and we made the rescue quickly and safely, with great feedback from the Patrol Captain (Result).”
What to Wear: Keep it smart, simple, and true to the role
First impressions count. You don’t need to go overboard with business suits unless the role is corporate, but looking neat, clean, and professional shows respect for the opportunity.
For most roles (lifeguard, youth roles, hospitality, etc.):
- Go with smart casual: a collared shirt, neat jeans or chinos, clean shoes.
- Avoid activewear, ripped clothing, thongs, or overly casual outfits.
- If in doubt, dress one step up from what you’d wear on the job.
Surf Life Saving tip:
If you’re applying for an SLSQ-related position, a clean club polo or tidy shirt is totally appropriate—it shows your connection and involvement without being too formal.
What to Ask: Show you’re curious and engaged
At the end of most interviews, you’ll be asked: “Do you have any questions for us?”
Saying “No, I think you covered everything” might feel polite, but it’s a missed opportunity. This is your chance to learn more about the role and show you’re genuinely interested.
Try asking:
- “What does a typical day in this role look like?”
- “What qualities make someone successful in this position?”
- “Is there training or development support for new team members?”
- “What are the biggest challenges someone in this role might face?”
Avoid asking about pay straight away—unless they bring it up, leave that for later stages.
Quickfire Tips for Interview Day
- Be early. Aim to arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled time.
- Bring a copy of your resume. Even if they already have it—it shows preparation.
- Turn off your phone. Or at least switch to silent and put it away.
- Make eye contact. This builds trust and shows you’re listening.
- Smile and be yourself. Confidence doesn’t mean being loud—it means being present, interested, and authentic.
Final Thoughts
Interviews don’t have to be terrifying. They’re just structured conversations where you and the employer figure out if it’s a good match.
By preparing well, dressing appropriately, and showing genuine interest, you’ll walk in with the confidence of someone who knows their worth—even if you’re nervous underneath.
You’ve already learned to stay calm under pressure as a surf lifesaver—use that same mindset in your interview. Stay focused, trust your training, and back yourself.
You’ve got this.