The Differences of Preparing for a Phone vs. In-Person Interview
Top employers are inundated with resumes when the company has an opening, so many opt to conduct a phone screening for the first round of interviews. Much faster, easier and more cost-effective than an in-person interview, this helps hiring managers screen candidates and decide who to bring into the office for the next round. Phone interviews aren’t quite as formal as those conducted in-person, but they still need to be taken very seriously. Many candidates make the mistake of not preparing, which can easily cost them the job. Don’t make this error in judgement if you’ve been invited to a phone interview. Instead, put a great deal of effort into the call, because the person on the other end of the line will be able to tell if you’re trying to wing it. Preparing for a Phone Interview vs. An In-Person Interview Priming yourself for a phone interview is different than an in-person meeting, but the two share more similarities than you may realize. It’s true you don’t have to get in the car and drive to an office for a phone interview, but you do have to be ready and waiting to pick up the phone when it rings. Sending the call to voicemail and returning it a few minutes later will not make a good impression. In a traditional interview, you have no say where the meeting takes place, but you’re in complete control when it takes place on the phone. This means it’s on you to find a quiet place where you won’t be distracted or interrupted, as you must completely focus on the person on the other end of the phone. Scope this spot out in advance, because trying to find a suitable location during the interview will stress you out. Background Research. Just as it’s important to conduct background research on the company and the interviewer prior to an in-person meeting, it’s just as key to do so before a phone interview. Spend as much time on this task as you would if you were headed to a face-to-face interview. Prior to the call, pull the company website up on your computer, so you can stealthily reference it, if needed. Responses to Common Interview Questions. Similarly, put as much effort into formulating responses to standard interview questions as you would if you were going into the office. Stumbling to find the right response is even worse over the phone, because you don’t have body language on your side. Jot down a few notes to help you remember your main points in case you get nervous. There’s no need to wear your best business attire for a phone interview, but avoid taking the call in sweats. The way you dress can impact your state of mind, so if you want to sound like a professional, you need to look like one. Ready to make a fresh start in the Miami hospitality industry? Contact RMG Staffing. We offer temp-to-hire, direct hire, and payroll positions and temporary staffing for banquet events.
Are You Between Jobs? How to Fill Those Gaps on Your Resume.
At some point in their career, many hospitality industry professionals find themselves between jobs — and that’s okay. If you’re in this situation right now, it’s time to take action. Whether you were laid off, quit or let go is in the past; what matters is how you handle this employment pause. Spending your days soaking up the Miami sun at the beach is tempting, but that won’t help you get hired any faster. Instead, consider taking on temporary jobs during this short-term break, as this is smartest way to get back on your feet. 3 Benefits of Temporary Employment Avoid Resume Gaps Your resume is usually the first impression you’ll make on a prospective employer, and if yours contains employment gaps, it won’t get you off to the best start. Temporary work effectively fills the gaps between permanent gigs, so you won’t have to worry about sending the wrong message. Hiring managers will be impressed with your initiative to take on temporary jobs during the interim, as this shows motivation, drive, and a true passion for working in the hospitality industry. Earn a Paycheck Bills still have to be paid when you’re between jobs, and it can be tough to make ends meet when you’re not earning a paycheck. Working as a temp allows you to wait until the right job comes along, instead of rushing into the very first opportunity that comes your way, simply so you can pay the rent. Instead of letting money woes guide your job search, focus on finding the right fit for your skills and interests. Make Valuable Connections Working as a temp in the hospitality industry is an invaluable networking opportunity. Treat each position as a permanent opportunity to show employers, colleagues, and clients what you have to offer. Oftentimes, companies extend job offers to temps who become a tremendous asset to the team, so this could quickly turn into a long-term gig. Regardless, you’ll still get the chance to meet many people who could change your future for the better, so don’t miss out! Need a little help making your next career move? Contact RMG Staffing. We offer various employment options for top hospitality industry staffers, including temp-to-hire, direct hire and payroll staffing positions, and temporary staffing for banquet events.