First impressions really do last. And since job competition in Ireland is fierce, one way to stand out is to breeze through that interview with confidence to make a great first impression.
This is the reason why some locals invest in hiring an interview preparation coach—to help them stand out, boost that confidence, and develop those communication skills.
Let’s check out the best interview preparation coaches in Ireland!
The Best Interview Preparation Coaches in Ireland
The top interview preparation coaches in the country are reviewed based on the following:
1. Ciara Stewart
| Credentials | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Experience | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Skills | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Techniques and tools | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Rates (Higher score means better value) | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Professionalism | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Reputation | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Ciara Stewart is widely known as one of the best Interview Preparation Coaches in Ireland. With over 20 years’ experience as a Lead interviewer and Recruitment Manager for a number of blue-chip organisations, she has led interview panels across a multitude of disciplines and up to and including Executive level roles in both private and public sector.
Since setting up her own businesses in 2020, Ciara regularly chairs interviews for senior level roles across different industries, utilising other assessment methods such as ability testing, personality assessment and presentations where appropriate to support organisations in hiring the best talent. Ciara also works with organisations regularly in facilitating interview training to both potential interviewers and interviewees.
Ciara Stewart’s interview preparation coaching offering to individuals includes a minimum of three coaching meetings. Each meeting has a structure and specific purpose and allows time for practicing and refining of sample answers to general, technical and competency-based interview questions. Feedback from some of Ciara’s previous clients mentioned that ‘each interview preparation coaching meeting covers a lot of content, involves a lot of practicing and Ciara even gives us plenty of homework to do in-between sessions’. Other feedback states that ‘Her mock interviews are tough but are great preparation for the real thing! She was very professional throughout the whole process. I cannot recommend her highly enough’.
Besides being an Expert Interviewer and Interview Preparation Coach, Ciara offers HR and Talent Consulting services to organisations as part of her business ‘Talent Matters’. She is also a Career Coach, with a MSc in Career Guidance from DCU and enjoys regularly supporting people in working towards and achieving their career goals.
Based on Ciara’s experience, qualifications and reputation in the Irish market, we believe she deserves the place of number 1 Interview Preparation Coach in Ireland.
Pros
- Breadth of experience
- Offers both online and face-to-face interview preparation
- Highly qualified
Cons
- Availability, advance bookings are required
Customer Reviews
Easy to work with and gives constructive feedback
Could not recommend Ciara highly enough. She provided me with excellent interview preparation and really constructive feedback. The mock interviews were perfect preparation for the real thing and gave me the opportunity to refine my responses and to be confident and prepared for interviews. Ciara is very easy to work with and really worth speaking to ahead of any interview process.— Shane Donnelly, Google Reviews
Detailed and informative
Ciara has a wealth of knowledge in interview preparation. Her feedback was detailed and tailor made to her client. Her mock interviews are tough but are great preparation for the real thing! She was very professional throughout the whole process. I cannot recommend her highly enough. — Niamh Sullivan, Google Reviews
2. Clearview Coaching Group
| Credentials | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Experience | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Skills | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Techniques and tools | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Rates (Higher score means better value) | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Professionalism | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Reputation | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
What makes Clearview Coaching Group stand out to us is that it offers several types of sector-specific interview preparation so you’ll get a more personalised session. The coaches have extensive experience in various fields which allows a tailored fit result. Celebrating 20 years in business in 2024.
For one, according to former clients who availed of Clearview’s services, the approach was very structured and organised. There’s an outline on how the sessions would proceed, and it’s followed to make sure all bases are covered!
However, what we love is that despite such an organised way of doing things, the content of the session can be adjusted based on the client’s needs. For example, after seeing the strengths of the clients, the focus on the next part will be on them.
Our Interview coaching power sessions are tailor-made to your agenda. We get you focused like a laser beam on the core, sector-specific challenges.
We love that the interview preparation coaches make sure to use the sessions in developing the skills of their clients instead of identifying more issues. To us, this is a smarter way of making the clients focus on what they can do than what they can’t.
We also like that the feedback every session is insightful. The coaches make sure that the clients are well-equipped not only with the skills they need but also with practical scenarios in their mind so they’ll know how to use what they learned.
Another thing we love—the coaches are available even post-sessions. If you have any questions, you can call them any time.
Pros
- Offers several types of interview preparation
- Very detailed and structured approach
- Professional and insightful
- Gives great advice
- Provides useful feedbacks
- Knows every interview scenario
- Responsive to queries post-sessions
- Sessions bring out a client’s strengths
Cons
- They are in demand so try to give as much notice as possible to book a session
Customer Reviews
Well-prepared interview sessions
Anna Marie has a unique ability to prepare you for the exact role which you’re looking for. I would say it’s a unique ability in that I felt that when we sat down to prepare she had known my role inside out, she knew what the interview panel wanted to hear and she was able to prepare me for the language of the particular interview I was going for. I left both sessions with her feeling confident in myself and confident that I had what it took to do the role. She was immensely thorough and went over and above in terms of time. She genuinely cared whether I would get the job. A true professional. Would Highly recommend — Timothy Telford, Google Reviews
Uses a strategic method
I had the privilege of working with Jane at a critical juncture in my career. Her strategic guidance was instrumental in navigating intricate career decisions and fostering my professional development. Jane’s commitment to comprehending my individual strengths, weaknesses and aspirations allowed us to customise our sessions, addressing my distinct requirements with precision. Her knowledge and expertise in senior leadership proved invaluable, offering insightful direction. I highly recommend Jane to any senior executive seeking to advance their career journey and achieve their professional goals.— Yvonne Brewer, Google Reviews
3. Terry O’Brien
| Credentials | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Experience | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Skills | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Techniques and tools | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Rates (Higher score means better value) | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Professionalism | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Reputation | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Terry O’Brien brings over two decades of experience in career consultancy and recruitment, making him a leading figure in interview preparation coaching. His background, from founding a recruitment company in 1999 to working with global corporations and lecturing at Dublin City University, demonstrates his deep knowledge of both the job market and the interview process.
Terry has reviewed thousands of CVs and LinkedIn profiles, giving him a comprehensive understanding of what employers seek during interviews. His extensive experience helps clients prepare for the specific demands of the interview process across multiple industries.
Terry focuses on understanding the individual needs of his clients. Whether you’re aiming for a promotion, transitioning to a new industry, or feeling uncertain about your career direction, his coaching is personalized to help you navigate these challenges.
Terry’s expertise extends beyond standard interview preparation. He has developed leadership programs for C-suite executives and high-level professionals, giving them the tools they need to excel in interviews for senior roles. His work with organizations like Enterprise Ireland and Mazars showcases his ability to cater to high-level professionals.
Terry’s experience as an Assistant Professor at DCU ensures that he stays up-to-date with the latest career research and trends. His teaching accolades reflect his ability to communicate complex concepts effectively, making him an excellent coach for anyone looking to sharpen their interview skills.
In addition to interview preparation, Terry is certified in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and life coaching, which enables him to incorporate mindset and personal development into his coaching. This holistic approach empowers clients to approach interviews with confidence and clarity.
Pros
- Vast Experience in Recruitment and Coaching
- Tailored Approach to Career Needs
- Support for Senior Leaders and C-Suite Executives
- Award-Winning Educator
- Holistic Coaching Approach
Cons
- Busy During Peak Seasons
4. Interview Techniques
| Credentials | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Experience | ★★★★☆ (5/5) |
| Skills | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Techniques and tools | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Rates (Higher score means better value) | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Professionalism | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Reputation | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
We like how Interview Techniques stays true to its name—the company really provides its clients with good and useful techniques. Not only that—they make sure you know how to apply those techniques so you’ll ace those interviews!
We were able to chat with a couple of its past clients, and they told us they loved the transparency of the interview coaches. They don’t hold back and tell you what you need to improve on and proceed to help you improve them.
The interview preparation coaches make sure to give constructive feedback and explain them in detail to you. They’ll also give you useful advice which you can use during the actual interview and give you scenarios related to them.
We also appreciate that they’re focused on helping their clients develop not only their skills but also their confidence. They know how crucial making a first impression is to securing that job so they’re very genuine in helping their clients.
Another thing we love about Interview Techniques is how well-structured their interview preparation sessions are. They utilise every single minute of the session, making it worth the money you paid for.
The only problem we see is that some sessions are rushed and a little too general. But this improvement should be more on the part of the assigned coach and not the company as a whole since the firm is known for its expert interview coaches.
Pros
- Honest and transparent regarding what needs to be improved
- Well-structured online interviews
- Provides useful advice
- Constructive feedback
- Knowledgeable and experienced coach
- Doesn’t waste time and utilises every session
- Pays attention to client’s self-confidence
Cons
- Sessions are sometimes rushed
- Generic sessions
Customer Reviews
Honest feedback on what needs to be improved
I found Laura following a google search. Her website was a great starting point with really handy resources. She was flexible and able to accommodate me within a short time frame to my interview. She provided helpful guidance on preparing for our session in advance. The session was structured very well online, particularly the use of the visual aid. I found her direct honesty helpful in areas for my interview skills development. Overall result, I got the job!! Thanks Laura! — Aoife Breathnach, Google Reviews
Very focused and knowledgeable interview coach
Laura is really superb at interview preparation and I fully recommend her. I felt well prepared after a session with her. She is focused and utilises the session very effectively, ensuring that you think through your professional experience and self development to showcase your competencies and achievements incisively and advantageously. A valuable investment that provided top results. — Beibhinn Byrne, Google Reviews
5. H-Training – Interview Training & Career Coaching Services
| Credentials | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Experience | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Skills | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Techniques and tools | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Rates (Higher score means better value) | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Professionalism | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Reputation | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
What makes clients flock towards H-Training – Interview Training & Career Coaching Services—their non-judgemental approach. This makes the clients feel at ease immediately, allowing them to focus on the task at hand, which is the interview.
According to some of its clients, H-Training’s interview preparation coaches were the most supportive coaches they met. This is the reason why they often come back for training and also why they recommend the firm to people they know.
In addition to this, H-Training is known to prepare every type of interview scenario for its clients. To us, this is a really good thing because it allows the clients to explore every technique they can to arrive at the best answer—this is great training!
We also appreciate the detail-oriented approach employed by the coaches. They make sure to take note of every gesture, word, tone, and manner during sessions so that they can make constructive criticisms and discuss them with the clients.
And we also love how the coaches are always available for consultation! Just in case you need immediate help, just call them in their own numbers and they’re usually available.
This is in contrast with the main phone line though. According to some clients, the only problem they had with H-Training was their communication channels—difficult to connect to the main line since it’s busy and the late replies to their queries via emails.
Pros
- Open on a Sunday
- Always available for a phone call with clients
- Supportive coaches
- Gives great advice
- Provides direct but useful criticisms
- Detail-oriented
- Non-judgmental approach
Cons
- Late responses to email queries
- Difficult to connect via main phone line
Customer Reviews
Client-centred approach
With a non-judgemental and person-centred approach to career coaching, Margaret is naturally gifted in making a person feel comfortable and understood. She actively encouraged ways in my mindset to extend upon those areas of interests and understand more about my thought processes, she helped me develop a better and deeper understanding of myself. I initially went to her for job interview coaching for where I advanced to very happily getting on the panel. I feel that I have been so fortunate and much for the better on so many levels having discovered H-Training and Margaret. — Eilish, Google Reviews
Perfect for those who like to have a refresher interview course
After a few years outside of the corporate workforce, I recently went to Mr Hourican for some help with my interview skills. I can honestly say I would have been lost in my past few months of interviews, had I not sought the help of H-Training. The one on one sessions and interview coaching prepared me for pretty much every scenario that I met and also boosted my confidence greatly. After being offered my dream job, I honestly cannot recommend H-Training enough. An invaluable service for the current interview process.— Danny McHugh, Google Reviews
6. Ronan Kennedy
| Credentials | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Experience | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Skills | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Techniques and tools | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Rates (Higher score means better value) | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Professionalism | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Reputation | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
What we love about Ronan Kennedy is that the approach is very warm and personal. The structure of the sessions is less rigid, but still very detailed and useful to the clients.
The interview preparation coaches are good at making clients understand and foresee interview scenarios. They also give good tips on how the clients can take advantage of these situations.
We want to make you understand though that despite being a top coach in interview preparation, Ronan Kennedy is actually a life coaching firm. The approach is more personal and motivational than practical and systematic.
Some former clients considered this as an advantage while some don’t. If you ask us, we think this isn’t exactly a bad thing, but we also agree that there might be a limit in techniques because the approach is different.
Ronan Kennedy though is really the perfect firm to develop your confidence. The sessions are very motivational and the mock interview results are discussed based on how you did rather than what you did.
This makes you focus more on your strengths, which is a good thing. The sessions are utilised on how you can make use of what you already have during interviews and just making sure you are using them the right way.
Also, we need to warn you that Ronan Kennedy can get fully booked. So if you’re in dire need of an interview preparation session with the firm, make sure to book a session weeks in advance.
Pros
- Focuses on an individual’s skills
- Great motivator
- Useful career advice
- Helps clients understand what needs to be improved
- Utilises every single minute of the session
- Great at boosting the interviewee’s confidence
- Comes well-prepared for the session
Cons
- Focuses on life coaching
- Always fully booked
Customer Reviews
Focuses on the client’s strengths and how to maximise them
Ronan was incredible during my phase of job search. He so easily ‘made me figure out’ what I needed to focus on and what needed change. He was brilliant in making me understand the nuances of an interview conversation and gave me the much needed confidence. He went the extra mile in noting down the conversations for later reference. He is very intuitive, thoughtful and knows just the tone and message you need to hear while guiding you on your journey.— Indira Nair, Google Reviews
Efficient in maximising sessions to make them productive
Ronan was very helpful and patient in preparing me for my job interview. He was conscious of our time and wrote up notes of our sessions afterwards which was really helpful when preparing for an interview on my own. I got the job I applied for so he was definitely successful!— Jean Doyle, Google Reviews
FAQs About Interview Preparation Coaches in Ireland
Interviews might not decide your overall fate in a job application, but it’s crucial for a good first impression. Finding the perfect coach will help you ace that first step. If you need coaching in other aspects of your life, try the Best Life Coach in Dublin.