After the success of our CV tips series, we decided to follow with a series of interview tips to help get you hired. This week we have spoken to our Head of HVACR & FM. This sector's recruitment process can move very quickly so it's important to say and do the right things from the start.
Associate Director specialising in HVAC & Refrigeration
0113 243 6047
john.cassidy@calibresearch.co.uk
Prepare for Very Different Interview Styles
No two interviews are the same and whilst you might be used to meeting in a coffee shop for an informal conversation you need to also be prepared for a more formal, traditional style of interview. National companies can ask you to complete technical tests and meet with numerous company representatives. To be best prepared, try to find out as much detail about the interview process before attending. Ask what to expect from the interview, what they would like you to bring with you, how long the interview will take and who you will be meeting with. Knowing the answer to these questions will help to gauge the style and formality of the interview process. It’s always better to be over-prepared.
Don’t Come Across as Money Motivated
Most interviewers will understand and appreciate that salary is important to any potential employee but try not to spend too much time discussing the financial side of the job. Interviewers are looking for passion and interest in the company, with many companies in the industry having a relatively high staff turnover they will be looking specifically for company loyalty. If you need to ask about salary try and sandwich the question between two company-based questions.
For example:
How many contracts does the company currently work on?
What are the overtime payments?
What area will I be covering?
Using a good recruiter will help get the answers to the difficult questions pre-interview. A recruiter will usually already know important details such as salary, overtime pay, travel-time payments, call-out rate, pension schemes and holiday, anything they don’t know they are more than happy to find out for you. Giving you, upfront knowledge of the position and saving you from awkward questions!
Show your Loyalty
As mentioned earlier, loyalty is a top priority for most companies, but especially in this industry. You want to make clear your enthusiasm towards working for their company whilst showing respect for your previous employer. It’s about getting a good balance. Refrain from spending too much time discussing any negative feelings or experiences you have with your previous companies. This can seem unprofessional. Similarly, you might think offering to start as early as possible, earlier than your notice period allows, will make you a stronger candidate, but it can look like you are comfortable leaving your current employer in the lurch. Unless you’re in a unique circumstance always see out your notice and make the interviewer aware of your notice at an early stage.
Have your Interview Notes to Hand
You will know how quickly you can be offered an interview in this industry and it’s not uncommon to be asked to attend at very short notice, meaning limited time to collate your qualifications, CV and proof of right to work. If possible, give yourself a little time to write some notes, even on your phone, to remind yourself of the important qualifications, training and experience you have had. It is easy to forget these things under the pressure of an interview so having them written down can be a point of reference when missing the documents you would usually have with you.
First Impressions are Key
To get to the interview stage your experience and skills are likely to be right for the job. This stage of the recruitment process is used to fill in the gaps, in particular, to see if your character is right for the company. Too often in this industry candidates are too self-promoting in the interview stage and this can come across as arrogant. Try discussing your skills and qualifications by linking them to the company’s interests, goals and achievements. You want the interviewer to feel you will support the company as well as drive for individual success.
It’s Ok to Wear Your Work Clothes
Companies are usually very accepting – and often expect- you to be in your work uniform when you come to the interview. Interviews tend to take place during working hours and therefore your interviewer will already be grateful you are taking time out of your working day to meet. Of course, there will be some exceptions to the rule so, if you know you will be coming directly from work, try to mention this beforehand, it will seem more considerate.
Associate Director specialising in HVAC & Refrigeration
John.cassidy@calibresearch.co.uk
Struggling to find the right position for you in the first place? Our team at Calibre Search have the experience and expertise to help you find the role that will help your career develop. Find out what is available on the Calibre Job Page. Call us on 0113 234 6047 to find out how we can help you. Alternatively, you can email our specialists and they will be in touch
