Interviews: Seeing Both Perspectives

There are always two sides to a story. Likewise, there are two sides to interviews! Exploring both sides of an interview process, looking at the perspective of both the interviewer and interviewee, we can help bring out the best in both parties.

In the beginning….

Employers using an agency will have received a shortlist of the best possible candidates for the role. They will have an insight into the candidate’s skills, strengths, weaknesses and most importantly, their persona. The interviewer can then be rest assured that the candidate they are seeing at interview is well suited for the role.

Sorry, I don’t do this very often!

Sometimes, as candidates, we can often forget that interviewing is not the main part of a manager’s role. Managers are responsible for lots of different things other than recruitment; hence, the interview experience will vary drastically from company to company, sometimes from the initial and final interview! Some employers enjoy the process and believe it or not, some can be just as nervous as the candidate!

I’m nervous!

Most of the anxiety around an interview is the fear of the unknown, so being prepared can make the process much more pleasant. Before an interview, be sure to do research on the company, the role and prepare some questions you may wish to ask the interviewer. We as an Agency will go through thorough preparation with candidates prior to their interviews – especially if it is a unique interview process. Not sure where to start? Be sure to check out our complete guide to Interviews for guidance!

And now for something different…

The questions! Competency-based questions and role play are becoming more and more common interview styles. From an employer’s perspective, these can pinpoint whether the candidate has the right culture fit for the team. Discovering their main qualities, what interests them in the role and their capabilities to match it.

Do you like me? 

Building relationships is important from both sides. Your personal presentation can suggest professionalism, organisation and likeability. Sitting straight, offering interest, listening and even at times mirroring body image all help to paint a picture of what you are really like.

Sell Sell Sell!

An interview is a sales process, as a candidate, you will be keen to work for the company, interested in the role, keen to hear more and to glean whether this will be a long-term role for you. It’s always a good idea to close the interview by asking if there are any doubts about your suitability for the position. This gives you the opportunity to clarify your experience with the interviewer. Equally, the interviewer is looking to see whether a candidate may have the dedication to a role, creativity and enthusiasm. The interviewer wants to know what the candidate can bring to the table.

Using a Recruitment Agency is a highly beneficial process for both the candidate and the client.  How do you know you are going to find the right candidate just by looking at a CV? Are personality and team fit the most important part of a successful long-term relationship between a candidate and a potential employer?

Our highly experienced consultants are on hand to help and advise where necessary. We are committed to finding candidates that will ultimately be a beneficial investment into our clients business.  Equally, we enjoy building relationships with our candidates to ensure that our honest approach helps them into a new and enjoyable career.

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