Preparation - be prepared for interviews in two ways:
1. Availability
- If we arrange an interview for you, be punctual.
- Time keeping is something on which all interviewees are judged.
- Keep your HM consultant aware of your availability and commitment to attending arranged interviews.
- Remember that transparency to us and our client is respected.
2. Research
- We will provide you with most of the information ahead of an interview but research into an employer is sensible as it gives you the confidence to talk more informatively in the interview.
- Remember to find out about an employer's trading position, their previous year's turnover and profit figures, and try to determine why you would be suited to their work culture.
- Think about their market sector and their immediate competitors.
- Ask yourself why you want to work there and then be prepared to tell them.
- Consider what are intelligent questions to ask at this stage.
- Ask your Hayden Marsh consultant for some ideas if necessary.
The Interview Etiquette
Having thoroughly prepared for your interview in consultation with your Hayden Marsh consultant, follow this rough guide to the actual interview:
- Know where you are going and allow for traffic. Arriving on time is crucial.
- Wear a business suit unless asked to dress informally beforehand.
- Relax and be confident: you have been asked to interview due to your skillset. Don't be overconfident though: let them lead the meeting and know when to listen and when to speak.
- Be yourself: We will have matched your skills and personality to that of the employer and/or the person interviewing you. Be yourself or it could lead to problems later.
- Answer their questions honestly and with transparency. Don't be blunt but do answer instinctively where appropriate. Interviewers warm to openness.
- If you think you've said something that you'd like to correct or that may have been misinterpreted, say so. You may not get a second chance.
- Don't talk about salary at a first interview unless they raise the subject.
- Remember that your Hayden Marsh consultant will already have agreed your salary expectations with the client, however if the point is addressed, remember to refrain from significantly changing the figure discussed. Balance this with trying to achieve the best salary and remember the benefits package: they can be a deciding factor.
Your Hayden Marsh consultant will provide you with any further information so please ask.
