How to master an interview when you find the tables are turned on you.
It is very different sitting on the opposite side of the table. It doesn’t matter if you have no recruitment experience or 20 years, attending an interview can be a nerve wracking thing. Many of our candidates, who are experienced recruiters, acknowledge that despite the fact they interview for a living, it’s really very different and sometimes quite confronting when you find yourself sitting on the other side of the table.
We interview recruiters face to face every day but do not agree to represent everyone who comes through our door. Despite the majority of our clients being in hiring mode, and the competition to attract consultants being high, our clients are still extremely discerning and picky about what they are looking for and, therefore, so are we.
On interviewing with BMR, would you hope to be tagged with “Tier 1” candidate status? If you want to put yourself in the best possible position, gaining representation to the best brands and opportunities in town then here are our top interview tips:
A “tier one” consultant:
- Displays confidence not arrogance.
- Adapts quickly to their new role of interviewee and allows us to run the meeting to obtain the information that we need to sell and present them properly.
- Displays confident body language, stands to give a firm hand shake and holds eye contact.
- Is comfortable to allow their personality to come through. We are sales people, not robots, your individual personality is key. We are looking for people who stand out from the crowd and will be memorable in front of clients.
- Is not too relaxed in the interview (slouching is a no no).
- Answers questions directly and succinctly and can give detailed examples.
- Talks about I and not We.
- Understands their numbers – targets, actual results, break downs and these numbers add up.
- Has clear reasons for looking, and clarity around what they are looking for.
- Takes accountability for their own actions (It’s a red flag when it always seems to be someone else’s fault!)
- Is open about weaknesses and can take on board constructive criticism.
- Wants to partner with a rec2rec consultant to achieve a detailed and focused search rather than going for a volume numbers driven “spray and pray” approach.
- Shows self-awareness – understands and can articulate what sits behind their motivations and drivers.
- Displays a commitment to continuous learning.
- Has put thought into who will be their referees.
- Ensures what is claimed in their resume accurately matches up to what is written on their Linked in profile
- Genuinely sees recruitment as their career of choice.
It is surprising how very few recruiters nail their interviews with us. Many simply crumble when put outside of their comfort zone sitting on the other side of the interview table. Want to hit the ball out of the park when it comes to your time to be interviewed? Follow these steps and you can’t go far wrong. If you would like tailored advice on your resume or interviewing, its all part of our service, don’t hesitate to talk with a consultant at Barton Mills.
