Last night saw episode two of The Job Interview on Channel 4, with more interesting and quirky characters appearing.
This week provided a number of key interview tips that we could not help but spot. For starters, interviewers need to put candidates at ease, not leave them feeling even more terrified than they already are in the always stressful interview process. It was mentioned that you are ‘on’ as soon as you enter the interview room, however we firmly believe that the whole process actually begins as soon as you step foot on the property – how you speak with those receiving you, your body language while waiting, your overall behaviour and manner – none of this goes unnoticed. Do not lie about skills, you will get found out more often than not. Copy check your CV, ask someone to check it for you too, just make sure it is correct. Finally, it appears that the David Brent style of management by Colossal business owner, Lee, is alive and well – “I’m looking for a lion”!
The first company on this episode was Blacks Vets, a veterinary practice in Dudley, looking for a new receptionist to join their close knit and emotionally involved team. How can you not be emotionally involved when it includes poorly animals? Tracey (MD) and Valerie (Practice Manager) came across as lovely and kind and had shortlisted 4 candidates from over 500 applicants. There was one definite no-no from the off – no hobbies or interests and no prioritisation know-how do not a perfect candidate make! The other three were all in with a shot and were clearly animal lovers. The likable ex teacher got the role in the end, but the good news does not end there…the other two candidates got jobs at the company too…all’s well that ends well.
Company two was Colossal Training, offering maritime and health & safety training, looking to recruit an Admin Officer for their central Liverpool office. Lee and Karen had very different interview techniques, not only from company one, but from each other. Karen definitely came across as the tougher and ‘stricter’ of the two – immediately pointing out flaws, mistakes and errors to candidates, she did not hold back! Lee was no soft touch either, but came across as less intimidating. Three females and two males were interviewed, of varying ages, skills, backgrounds and ages. The older lady was hilarious, but not right for the job. The ‘final two’ were both lovely, with considerable personal backstories – pulling on the heartstrings. The girl got it in the end - we were hopeful that they would have found another role for the guy - but it was not to be!
Our top three takeaways for interviewees from this episode are:
- The interview starts the moment you arrive in the car park – not when you meet the interviewer!
- Make sure your CV is perfect and get someone else to check it
- Don’t say you can do something on your CV without being able to, and prepared to back it up
Roll on next week…
