How to prepare for an interview with a recruiter in the hospitality industry
An interview with a recruiter is a crucial step in your job application process. It’s the perfect opportunity to showcase your skills and demonstrate why you’re the best choice for the position. Proper preparation can help you make a good impression and increase your chances of landing your dream job. Recruiters, often called headhunters, can significantly impact your career, both short-term and long-term. Therefore, it's essential to be as professional as you would be in an interview with a potential employer. Below are some valuable tips to help you prepare and make a lasting impression on the recruiter.
Update your resume and LinkedIn profile
Having an up-to-date and well-tailored resume can make a great impression on recruiters. The same goes for your LinkedIn profile, which is often used by recruiters to find and screen suitable candidates. A professional and complete profile can create a positive first impression and increase your visibility. Ensure your resume and LinkedIn profile are current and contain relevant information that aligns with the positions you desire. Additionally, it’s important to have all necessary documents on hand, such as your resume, portfolio, reference list, and driver’s license.
Do your research
Good preparation starts with thorough research. Review the recruiter’s LinkedIn profile before the conversation. You might find something in common that can create a personal connection. By gathering this information, you show that you’ve done your homework and are serious about the opportunity. Familiarize yourself with the hotels and hospitality companies the recruiter represents or likely works with. Understand their specialization and the specific segments of the hospitality industry they are active in, such as luxury hotels, boutique hotels, or business accommodations. This enables you to ask targeted questions and demonstrates that you are well-informed. If there is a specific hotel or type of accommodation you’re interested in and the recruiter already has a relationship with them, this connection can be very valuable.
Prepare questions and know what they will ask
Preparation is essential for a successful conversation with a recruiter. Write down the questions you want to ask, the information you want to share, and the skills you want to highlight. Think about your experiences in the hotel sector and the specific skills you’ve developed, such as hospitality and operational management. Make sure you can provide concrete examples of your achievements.
Ask the recruiter about the type of work, the hotel or hospitality company, and the expectations for the role. Prepare targeted questions about the position and work environment to show your interest. Share your expectations and any concerns politely and clearly. Open communication helps the recruiter match you with a suitable role better. Being well-prepared increases your chances of success.
Know your exact salary and benefits
It’s important to know your current annual salary and all benefits precisely, not approximately. Don’t forget to include any allowances and pension schemes that go beyond the standard pension. Know what your current target bonus is, both in percentage and amount, and be aware of last year’s actual bonus. Be prepared for a serious conversation about your salary expectations. If you find this challenging, ask the recruiter for guidance. Also, research the cost of living, salaries, and effective tax rates, especially if you’re considering relocation. Honesty is essential, especially in conversations with recruiters. This helps them find a position that truly fits you and prevents future misunderstandings.
Know what you want
It’s important to be clear about your career goals and expectations. Here are some points to prepare for:
Describe your ideal role: Consider the specific sector within the hospitality industry, the position, and other criteria such as development opportunities.
Prepare for trade-offs: No job is perfect. Are you willing to trade better secondary conditions for a slightly lower salary?
Relocation: What are your desired locations? Are you willing to move for a great job? Discuss this with your partner before the interview.
Develop a decision matrix: Determine which criteria are important to you and which trade-offs you are willing to make. Explain this matrix during the interview and ensure it is realistic.
Be open about your reasons for leaving: Only if the recruiter knows why you’re leaving can they match you with a suitable job.
Know your career and salary goals: Know what you want to achieve in your career and what salary you expect. Be ready to communicate these goals clearly and confidently. Recruiters want to know what your ambitions are and if they align with the positions they offer.
Self-awareness: Know your strengths and weaknesses. By understanding your capabilities and motivations, you can better communicate why you are a good match for the role and how you can contribute to the success of the hotel.
What can you offer the company?
During your conversation with a recruiter, clearly show what you can bring to the hotel. Think about your unique skills, experiences, and qualities you possess. Can you solve specific problems or have expertise in a particular area, such as hospitality, operational management, or customer service? Can you demonstrate that you’ve contributed to the success of the team or hotel in previous roles?
Be prepared to provide concrete examples of your achievements and how they add value to the role you’re applying for. By making it clear how your talents and experiences align with the needs of the hotel or hospitality company, you show that you are not only qualified but also proactive and committed to delivering results. This helps the recruiter position you better with potential employers and increases your chances of a successful match.
Dress appropriately
A positive first impression starts with appropriate business attire that is clean and well-pressed. Prepare your outfit the night before and ensure you are well-groomed.
Presentation is crucial. A recruiter expects you to look neat. Formal attire or at least smart casual is recommended. While you may dress more informally once you have the job, it’s wise to always opt for business attire for an interview. Ensure your clothes are tidy and comfortable, so you’re not constantly adjusting or fidgeting.
Know your resume well
There are times when a recruiter asks a candidate about details in their resume and they can’t remember the specifics. Make sure you know your resume well so you can recall your responsibilities and achievements in previous roles directly.
This enables you to confidently explain your experience during interviews. Additionally, you’ll feel more comfortable talking about your work experience. Strong and easily explained examples of your achievements are crucial; you should be able to summarize your role in one to two sentences.
Be on time
Punctuality is a basic requirement. Ensure you don’t arrive extremely early or late. While early is better than late, arriving an hour too early can also be awkward. Being late gives the impression that you are unreliable, which can affect how people think you will behave with a client.
To be on time, check parking options or public transport near your appointment in advance. Also, look at live traffic and transit updates. It’s wise to build in a 10-15 minute buffer for unexpected events. If you still expect to be late, call the recruiter to apologize and indicate when you expect to arrive. This shows that you are professional and respectful, enhancing your chances of making a successful impression.
Have good body language
Body language plays a crucial role during a meeting with a recruiter. Ensure you are aware of your posture and movements. Avoid slouching or fidgeting with objects, as this can create an unprofessional impression. Sit up straight, keep your palms open, and make regular eye contact. This conveys confidence and openness.
A positive and confident demeanour creates a good atmosphere and promotes a smooth interaction. Smile at appropriate moments and nod in agreement when the recruiter speaks to show that you are actively listening and engaged. Also, pay attention to your facial expressions; try to appear relaxed and friendly, even if you are nervous.
Follow up after the interview
After the interview, a follow-up is essential. Send a thank-you email to the recruiter, expressing your gratitude for their time and reiterating your interest in the discussed opportunities. This leaves a positive and professional impression and shows your appreciation for the opportunity.
A meeting with a recruiter can open doors to new and exciting career opportunities. By preparing well and following up professionally, you increase your chances of making a good impression and finding the job that’s perfect for you.
Wondering what hospitality recruiters can do for you? Get in touch with MJ People's hospitality recruiters.