Interview techniques

Tim Cook, managing director of Hays Building Services, offers some tips:

Be Punctual

In an ideal world, interviews are arranged with plenty of time to spare. However, they are often fitted in around other commitments and your current job. This does not give you an excuse to be late – make sure you give yourself enough time to reach the arranged meeting point with a good ten minutes to spare. Punctuality shows good time management and a positive approach to the role.

Build rapport

Although it may not seem this way, it is up to you whether your interview resembles an interrogation or not. If you don’t ask questions, you will force the interviewer to ask you more, leaving you without the necessary lead-ins to points you want to get across.

React to your interviewer

During an interview, your interviewer will subconsciously give you a lot of information on how to behave, which you should use as a guide for the rest of the interview. Observe their style and pace, and try to match it. Listen to what they are saying, and let them know you have been paying attention by asking relevant questions and making insightful comments.

Talk smart

One common mistake candidates make is to talk too much in an interview. Too much information, particularly personal information, should not be discussed during the interview. It is important to listen to the question asked and answer it accurately and succinctly.

Rehearse

Bear in mind that the competency-based interview is becoming more commonplace, and you may need to alter your interview technique in order to be successful. Unlike the traditional interview that focuses on skills, knowledge and education, this highlights personality traits, examines competencies and assesses how well they might fit with a company’s culture. If this technique is used, you will be asked to relate your answers to real-life experience. Rehearse your answers prior to the interview.

Second time round

At the second interview stage, interviewers will want to know if you really know your stuff, so make sure you can speak at length about any relevant experience and do your research on their company. If your interview ends without an offer, try to close the deal by asking, “What’s the next step in the process?” and “When can I expect a response?”

Don’t be disheartened if you don’t get the first job. Experienced building services candidates are in a strong position and employers are constantly looking for good, loyal staff – there are plenty of opportunities out there.

For further information about Hays Building Services and current opportunities, contact Mike McNally on 0191 222 0044 or visit www.hays.com/buildingservices