Interviews – when it all goes wrong!

As you can appreciate, we see this all too often.  Despite everyone’s best efforts, now and again, things go wrong.   I’m not really talking about having a bad interview although of course that can happen too.  But at least if you’ve done your preparation, this can be kept to a minimum.

I’m really talking about just getting there.   It happens a lot and let’s face it, all too often it is terminal to your application; but not absolutely always.  Depending on how you handle the situation, it might just be salvageable.

Running late – It’s not good and if it’s through poor time keeping or not knowing your route, then it’s all too often a mountain to climb as it sets such a bad first impression.   But people are understanding and if the M5 is closed due to a massive crash, or you’ve been held up at work because you really need to get that customer fixed, then maybe you’ll be OK.

What to do?  The minute you know there’s a problem, get straight on the phone; not email, phone.  It shows your sincere   and care.   Explain the problem, give a revised time and apologise.   I would suggest you phone your consultant but also the client direct.  You will  have been given the number on your interview letter.    Providing that they can still see you, when you arrive you should apologise again but then move on from it with confidence and don’t let it play on your
mind.

Can’t get out of work – This happens a lot, particularly if you’re trying to get away for an early evening interview or maybe taking a long lunch.  Sometimes you just can’t leave without getting that Server up and running, or fixing a customer’s email.

What to do?   Call as soon as you know there is going to be a problem.   If you can’t call, then email but the key is to make contact as soon as possible.

It’s not so critical to call phone the interviewer and consultant, but the main thing is to convey that you are professional and conscious which is why you can’t attend.  You are treating your clients the way the interviewer who wish their clients treated.   Again, apologise and try to reschedule.

Family emergency – As above, call as soon as you know and give details which are appropriate.  People do understand if you are being sincere and will be sympathetic to your circumstance.   Apologise and see if you can reschedule.

And so it goes on.

The point is, communication and sincerity is the best approach.

Some don’ts

Disappear – If you don’t call and can’t be reached, that will result in you losing the opportunity for sure and it also can result in you being taken off the books for future positions.  Remember that your actions reflect on your agency – so  look after us and we’ll look after you.

Lie – Unfortunately, this happens all the time.  People change their mind or can’t be bothered and so don’t attend.   We will understand if you get another job or decided to stay where you are.  Just be honest.    I’m sure most of us are but it happens a lot and it drives us crazy!!

Give up – As I said above, just because something has gone wrong, doesn’t mean it has to be all over.  Give us all the chance to fix it and get you the job you deserve.

Every week 2 or 3 people have these issues which are not always dealt with in the right way to give you the chance to get back in front of the interviewer.   This blog may seem like common sense but actually it deals with our biggest frustrations and by adopting this, we can all avoid a lot of disappointment