The Welsh Wire: They Did WHAT?

Welsh’s guests say there are several things a candidate should do to help ensure a successful job interview.

Do Your Homework: Kyler says it’s always a good thing to show up a few minutes early as a candidate and sit in the lobby because it really gives you an idea of the culture and the flow of the company. Are people walking fast? Are they talking to each other? Does it feel like a good environment? 

Lean on Your Recruiter: Welsh notes that recruiters have helpful behind-the-scenes information about the company that can’t be found on the internet.

Follow the Itinerary: Chapman shares a story of a quality candidate who ignored a detailed itinerary and GPS-ed the company name instead, ending up at a sister plant an hour away. He was not rescheduled because it showed a lack of attention to detail.

Prepare Appropriately: Hemminger says it’s really good to do the homework, rehearse what you know and ask questions of the recruiter that you’re working with. If a recruiter says the company dress code is “business casual,” follow that advice. She had a candidate wear a full suit for a role that spent 80 percent of the time on a manufacturing floor, which made him look like he wouldn’t actually want to be on the floor. 

Details Matter: VanWyk tells of two identical sales candidates where the hiring decision came down to footwear. The candidate who polished his shoes got the job because it represented preparation and pride.

“Having done this for almost a hundred years collectively, we’ve seen that while you don’t get hired just for having shined shoes, when all other things are equal, it is ultra-professional appearance and attention to detail will pop you to the top,” says Welsh.

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