top tips for interview

You rarely get a second chance to create a good first impression, so in brief:

• Be prepared and know your CV
• Do some company research
• Dress smartly
• Arrive on time
• Have some questions prepared

With a number of hospitality roles, you may also be required to complete a working trial so that the client can ‘see you in action.’ Your Select Hospitality consultant will be able to help you prepare for this.

Before the interview

• Ensure you have a full job description and are aware of the format that the interview will take.
• Do some company research.  The company website is a great place to start. You may well be asked what you know about the company, so impress the interviewer with your knowledge i.e.: What the company does, how long they have been established, the size, structure, turnover, competitors, their market and aims for the future.
• Ensure you know where the company is and ideally do a “dummy run”.  Always allow additional time for unavoidable delays.  Arriving late or flustered does not create a good impression.
• Check the time of the interview and who will be interviewing you.

On the day

• Take a contact number with you.
• Dress appropriately – a suit is usually a “must” for interviews and portrays professionalism.
• Ensure you are well groomed and tidy and that you are not chewing gum.

The interview

The interview is a two-way process and also an opportunity to ensure that the job and company are right for you.

Here are some top tips:

• SMILE!  Ensure you come across as friendly, approachable and enthusiastic.
• Be polite to all staff you meet – you never know, they could well influence the recruitment process
• Listen carefully to questions and allow the interviewer to finish speaking before responding
• Don’t worry about pausing before you answer a question as this shows you are considering it seriously.
• Where possible, give practical evidence of any statements you make
• Never criticise former employers
• Maintain eye contact, relax and show interest in what the interviewer says

Be prepared for questions such as:

• What do you know about our company?
• What interests you most about the role?
• Why should we appoint you?
• What is important to you in a role?
• What was your greatest success in your last position?
• How would your Manager or colleagues describe you?

You will usually have the opportunity to ask questions at the end of the interview – think about what is important to you, but some questions might be:

• What training can I expect on joining your company? 
• Are there any drawbacks to my application?
• How many candidates are you interviewing for this role? 
• When will you be making a decision?

Finally…

• Make sure you have confirmed your interest in the job.
• Conclude the interview with a handshake, remembering to thank the interviewer for their time.

After the interview contact your consultant and let them know how the interview went.