Got a motor trade interview coming up and you’re thinking “I’ve got no time to prepare”?
If you’ve got an interview coming up and you’re short on time, don’t panic. A quick 30-minute prep routine can make a big difference to how confident you feel.
This checklist works whether you’re interviewing for:
- Workshop roles (Technician, MOT Tester)
- Aftersales roles (Service Advisor, Parts)
- Sales roles (Sales Executive, Business Manager)
- Office roles (Admin, Accounts)
Let’s get you interview-ready.
0–5 Minutes: Lock in the Basics
This part isn’t exciting, but it’s what stops the last-minute stress.
Quick checks:
- Confirm the interview time and location (or video link)
- Save your recruiter’s number (and the business phone number as a backup)
- Check travel time, parking and plan what time you need to leave
- Decide what you’re wearing and get it ready now
Aim to arrive around 10 minutes early so you’re not rushing.
If it’s a video interview, test WiFi, camera angle, microphone, and lighting. It’ll help you feel calmer and more in control before the interview starts.
5–10 Minutes: Re-read the Job Advert
Most candidates skim the job advert once and then go into the interview half-remembering what the role involves.
Read it again and pull out the key details:
- The job title and responsibilities
- What they’re looking for
- Any requirements (licence, MOT, diagnostic skills, customer handling)
- Any systems mentioned (Kerridge, CDK, 1link, Pinnacle, Autotrader)
Then ask yourself: Which 2-3 parts of my experience match this role best? Those are the points you want to lead with in the interview.
10–15 Minutes: Prepare Your “Tell Me About Yourself” Answer
This question comes up in most interviews, and it’s where candidates often start to over-explain.
Keep it short, clear, and structured.
Your 30-second formula:
- What you do now
- What you’ve done recently
- What you want next
Example (Service Advisor): “At the moment I’m working as a Service Advisor in a busy dealership. I’ve been in the motor trade for about three years now and I’m really confident dealing with customers, keeping everything organised, and making sure the workshop has what it needs to keep things moving. I’m looking for a role where I can keep building on that and be part of a solid team.”
Example (Technician): “At the minute I’m working as a Vehicle Technician. I do a mix of servicing, repairs, and diagnostics depending on what’s coming through. I’m quite hands-on, I like doing things properly, and I’m reliable with my work. I’m looking for a role where there’s a steady workflow and a team I can settle into and progress with.”
The goal is to be clear and confident, without going into too much detail.
15–20 Minutes: Prep for the “Big 5” Interview Questions
These are some of the most common interview questions and being ready for them will help you feel more confident on the day.
“Why are you leaving your current job?”
Keep your answer positive and future focused. For example:
- “I’m looking for a better long-term opportunity.”
- “I’m ready for a new challenge.”
- “I want to progress and develop.”
- “I’m looking for a role that suits my strengths better.”
Try to avoid being negative about your current employer, even if it’s been a difficult experience.
“What do you know about us?”
You don’t need to spend ages researching, but a quick look at the company helps you stand out. Check:
- Whether they’re independent or part of a group
- What brands they represent
- What services they offer
- Any reviews or local reputation
Even one detail like “I saw you’re a busy site with a strong reputation locally” shows you’ve made an effort.
“What are your strengths?”
Pick two strengths that link to the role and back them up with a quick example. For example:
- “I’m calm under pressure and stay organised.”
- “I’m confident speaking to customers and managing expectations.”
- “I’m reliable, consistent, and take pride in my work.”
- “I work well in a team and I’m always willing to help.”
“Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult situation”
This is common in the motor trade because the job can be fast-paced and unpredictable. Use a simple structure:
- What happened
- What you did
- What the outcome was
Examples could include a customer complaint, a parts delay, a warranty issue, or a busy day where you had to prioritise.
“What salary are you looking for?”
It’s fine to be honest, but keep it calm and flexible. For example:
- “I’m open depending on the full package, but based on my experience I’m looking in the region of £X to £Y.”
- If you’d rather not give a number straight away:
“I’d like to understand more about the full package and expectations, but I’m looking for something in line with the market for this type of role.”
20–25 Minutes: Prepare 2 Questions to Ask Them
Asking a couple of questions at the end shows you’re prepared and genuinely interested in the role.
Good questions include:
- “What does a successful first 3 months look like in this role?”
- “How is the team structured day to day?”
- “What training or progression is available?”
- “What do you enjoy most about working here?”
Try to keep questions about holiday entitlement, sick pay, or benefits for later in the process.
25–30 Minutes: Final Checks
These last five minutes are all about making sure you feel organised and ready on the day.
Do this:
- Re-read your CV so you remember what you’ve included
- Bring your licence and any certificates (MOT, NVQ, ATA, etc.)
- Charge your phone
- Pack what you need now (CV copy, notebook, pen)
One simple tip: think of one example where you’ve done well in a previous role. It could be improving customer satisfaction, hitting targets, helping the team in a busy period, or being trusted with more responsibility. Having one clear example ready makes it much easier to answer questions confidently.
🤔 Want a version you can save? We’ve also created a downloadable checklist for you to keep handy.
Bonus Tip: If You’re Nervous, That’s Normal
You don’t need to hide your nerves. If you’re feeling a bit anxious, it’s fine to say it in a professional way, for example: “I’m a bit nervous, but I’m really pleased to be here.” Most interviewers will understand, and it often helps you settle into the conversation.
Want Support Before Your Interview?
If you’ve got a motor trade interview coming up, we can help you feel prepared and confident. Our consultants support candidates we’re representing with interview advice, from what the employer is looking for to how to handle common questions confidently.
If you’re not already registered with Perfect Placement, get in touch today to discuss current opportunities and how we can support your job search.
FAQs: Motor Trade Interview Prep
How long should I spend preparing for a motor trade interview?
Around 30–60 minutes is usually enough if you focus on the job advert, your key examples and a few strong answers.
What should I take to a motor trade interview?
Bring your CV, driving licence (if required), and any relevant certificates (NVQ, ATA, MOT). A notebook and pen is optional.
What should I wear to a motor trade interview?
Aim for smart and tidy. Smart casual works well for most roles, even if the job is workshop-based.
How do I answer “Why are you leaving your job?” without sounding negative?
Keep it positive and future-focused. For example: “I’m looking for progression”, “I’m ready for a new challenge”, or “I want a role that better fits my strengths.” Avoid criticising your current employer, even if things haven’t been great.
Do I need to research the company before the interview?
Yes. Even a quick look at what they do and their reputation helps you answer “Why do you want to work here?” confidently.
What if I don’t have much experience yet?
Highlight your attitude, reliability, willingness to learn, and any transferable skills like teamwork, customer service, and timekeeping.
30-Minute Motor Trade Interview Prep Quick Checklist
- Confirm time, location/video link, travel plan, and outfit
- Re-read the job advert and match 2–3 skills to the role
- Prep your 30-second “tell me about yourself”
- Have answers ready for leaving, strengths, salary, and pressure situations
- Prepare 2 questions to ask at the end
- Final checks: CV, licence/certificates, phone charge
💡Don't forget - we’ve also created a downloadable checklist for you to keep handy.