Interviews are hard! We get it. That’s why we have written up our most important job interview tips. They’ll help you smash your next interview in the hospitality industry and secure your dream job
Interview Tip 1 – Set your intentions
Our first job interview tip is to ask yourself “why is this interview important?” It’s a chance to showcase your skills to your dream employer and highlight why you’re their next superstar. It’s also a chance for you to ensure the job is perfect for you.
Knowing what you want from the interview ensures you’re fully prepared with questions and examples of how you’re exactly who they’re looking for…
Interview Tip 2 – Prep
Prepare for your interview, it’s so simple but you would be surprised at how many people live by the “wing it” mentality and fail to conduct thorough interview prep.
How to prepare for your interview?
A few days before your interview date. Do your research.
As our Talent Manager, Judyta says “research, research, research. It’s essential you know all there is to know about the role and the company.”
Abi Dunn, Our Founder, shared an amazing tip “…take a highlighter to the job description and highlight the behaviours the company is looking for. The perfect interview prep is to think of ways you have exhibited desired behaviours. This way you won’t be met with “the computer says no” when you scan your brain for an example on the spot.”
Ask yourself some key questions and prepare some solid answers:
- What are your proudest achievements from previous roles?
- Why did you leave your last role?
- How can you showcase your skills in abilities outside of working roles?
- Have you completed a sport event which demonstrates determination & commitment?
- Are you currently studying or reading a great personal and professional development which highlights continuous self improvement?
Rebecca Russell, Talent Consultant also recommends having some questions ready for them! Example questions to ask in your interview include:
- What do you love about working here?
- What are you looking for from the ideal candidate?
- Do you have a co-worker you really enjoy working with and what are their qualities?
- What is the biggest opportunity you see for someone looking for their next step in hospitality?
Remember the interview is just as much for you as it is for them. We promise you all our employers have done their research too and they will have some great answers to keep the conversation flowing… if you’re not sure what to ask, start by asking us for help. We love making sure you’re fully prepared for your interviews.
Interview Tip 3 – Outfit planning
The interview preparation continues… plan your outfit. Along with interview research…
Judyta recommends “carefully thinking about the company’s dress code. If you’re not sure what to wear, ask your consultant. They can provide all the information on how to present yourself at an interview.
We only work with employers who can see beyond attire and physical appearance, but we know you will leave a lasting impression if you’re dressed like you already work there.” “
Interview Tip 4 – Positivity is key
Always put your best foot forward and leave the past in the past. This is your time to shine. Be prepared to think about the positives.
Advice from our Talent Manager, Rachel would be to “avoid talking negatively about previous employees and remain positive in all aspects.” Abi Dunn echoes this “positive communication always bodes well.”
One of the best ways to improve your mindset is to step outside, Abigail Hammond, our Relationship & Events Manager swears by this… “my top tip for smashing an interview is to go on a walk, be outside, clear your head and be yourself.”
Interview Tip 5 – Relax (as much as you can…)
Our next interview tip is to prepare for an online interview. Zoom is still around, and a lot of employers can accommodate online interviews if time is short or distance is in question.
Talent Manager, Matt Powell gives you a nugg “get yourself a cup of tea make yourself comfortable because that level of comfort will come across on camera and make for a much better interview than sitting all stuffy…and stiff!”.
Mike Wood, Talent Manager, also believes in being relaxed…” Relax. Be yourself. Remember it’s just as much an interview for you as it is for them. Make sure you have some questions; it’s a two-way street and you should treat it that way. “
There you have it. Our fave job interview tips to ensure you absolutely smash it! Still, want some advice? Contact us today and we will be more than happy to help. Always.
