Alternatives to an interview

There are ways to show your knowledge, experience and skills other than with an interview

Selection for a job does not have to involve an interview, but organisations will vary in how open they are to alternatives. Depending on the type of role, the selection process may be very specific – for example, if you are applying for a performance role, you may be asked to attend an audition.

Some alternatives to an interview are mentioned in the list below. You may be able to ask for them, either in addition to the standard process, or instead of the standard process. Dean Beadle talks about alternatives in his interview with us.

Other ways of demonstrating your suitability:

• Submit a video – where you describe or demonstrate evidence to show you can do what they are asking. If an organisation asks for a Curriculum Vitae (CV), it may be possible to submit a video CV which will enable you to show examples of your work or to demonstrate how you work.

• Compile a portfolio – show the work you have already done in photos, samples, or references and case studies.

• Work Trial / Trial Shift – where you do the job on a trial basis. The more complicated the job, the longer the trial will be. Work trials are very common in hospitality, retail and creative work. As an autistic person, you may need longer to get familiar with the job and the working environment as a reasonable adjustment. You can ask whether there will be a payment or expenses in advance, but most work trials are unpaid and the law in this area is unclear. You should ask:
  • How long will the trial shift last?
  • When will it start and finish?
  • What are you expected you to do during the shift?
  • For the trial agreement to be put in an email

• Work Experience – unpaid, work experience can give you long enough in a job for your employer to see the real benefits of employing an autistic person. There is more information on types of work in our Preparing for Work section.
• Internships – paid or unpaid, an internship usually lasts longer than work experience and lets you work out if the job is what you want to do. It also gives the employer the chance to see how good you would be at the job