Hiring Tales

Hiring Tales

We asked a number of senior PSM Managers and Directors to comment on the most impressive/memorable thing a candidate has done in an interview and whether or not the candidate got the role!

Here is what they said...

• They told me how much, and how little they knew about the firm - then told me how they would learn more about what was important - Yes they were hired.
• Those who are comfortable in themselves and not afraid to ask questions - Yes they were hired.
• We recently recruited a Business Development Manager for a new market that our firm is seeking to enter. At the interview, the responsible partner indicated that he was struggling to identify the right clients. The individual sent in a marketing plan post interview with some suggestions - and yes, they were recruited.
• Follow-up / thank you for the interview emails are a bit passé. But a follow-up email that captures the essence of the role and shows me in practical terms how they will make a contribution to my team - and all in the space of under 10 lines - is impressive - yes they were hired.
• They anticipated what type of questions they would be asked and presented examples of their work - they most certainly got the job
• I am into open, honest discussions - warts and all
• Being personable, affable and demonstrate ability
• Building rapport & demonstrating their professionalism by asking the right questions & listening and clarifying answers. Providing appropriate follow up after interview. Yes they got the job
• Candidates who ask relevant and challenging questions - and show they know the magnitude of the job - the good bits and the less good bits!
• The most impressive candidates, no matter what their level of experience, have a degree of confidence and authenticity that sees you selling the job to them. How people do that perhaps can't be taught?
• It is always best if someone comes in expecting an honest, two-way conversation, expecting to answer but also ask direct questions in an appropriate manner. Humour too is always good. I expect all of this on the job and so I am always well disposed to anyone who brings all this to an interview
• Asking interesting questions, being interested and an engaged, follow-up email - Yes they got the job.
• They came to the second interview with a plan for their first month in the job. I was impressed with their questions at the first interview (asking the right things) but then turning up to show me (at second interview) how they could get fast traction - it was really clever and in at least 50+ interviews, I have only seen it once. Yes they got the job.
• A memorable moment was when the candidate created a poster from legally blonde and put a cut-out of their face on it... the candidate did not get the job!