This is our lobby in the new location in Madeira, Ohio (Cincinnati area). It’s comfortable and cozy, with a bit of charm just because we are hospitable! As experts in the hospitality industry, we know that a soft seat is welcomed. And remember, we don’t mind if you check out the goodies in the candy dish!Many companies are using phone interviews as the first step in the interviewing process. While you might think a phone interview is much easier than a face to face interview, it can be quite the opposite. Considering the fact that the hiring manager cannot see you the only thing they have to base their assumptions on are your phone skills. What are these skills might you ask? Well check out our phone interviewing best practices below and you will blow the hiring manager away with your charisma, confidence, and high energy!
Phone Interviewing
Be Prepared
• Make sure you are in a quiet place so that you can talk freely with no distractions.
• Be out of bed and dressed before the interviewer calls. You would be surprised how much an interviewer can tell about you over the phone.
• Do some research, eat at the restaurant concept, see what the company is all about to ask questions.
• Have your resume/employment history by the phone or in a place that is easily accessible.
• Have a note pad or paper with you to ask questions or take notes.
While You Are Talking…
• Keep a glass of water close by.
• Be positive and show high energy.
• Even though the interviewer cannot see you, smiling will help project a positive image.
• If there is a bad connection ask them to call back or ask if you can call them back.
• Avoid interrupting the person doing the interviewing. Wait for them to ask the entire question.
• Take your time with your answers. It is ok to think about what you want to say.
• Show genuine passion about the brand.
• Do not smoke or chew gum during the interview.
• Don’t use foul language.
Facts Tell Stories Sell
• Tell specific and real life stories that show your expertise.
• Be prepared to talk numbers: sales, food and labor costs, and profits that you managed.
Leave a Lasting Impression
• Ask the interviewer for their contact information.
• Send a thank you letter or email to the interviewer.
• It is ok to ask the interviewer at the end of the interview: “Where do we go from here?”.
• Thank them for the opportunity.
We Believe in YOU!! Go Get Em!!
Here at AGI we want to give our candidates every possible opportunity to succeed. Often times the only thing that separates a good candidate from a great candidate is not their potential to be a great manager but their interviewing skills! Many candidates who are perfect for the position come into the interview worried or nervous which causes them to stumble when sitting in front of the interviewer. Relax! Know that AGI has your back and we believe in you! Here is a document that we have created to make sure you are 100% prepared for the interview and that you present yourself the way we know you can.
Interviewing Tips
Dress For Success
• Dress Conservatively: Moderate cologne and perfume.
• For Males: Business suit and tie (well pressed) and clean shaven.
• For Females: Business suit attire with moderate make up and jewelry.
You Only Get One Chance to Make a First Impression
• Be at least 15 minutes early.
• Firm handshake and a smile.
• Posture is important. Send a message of confidence!
• Call us or the hiring manager if you are going to be late.
• NEVER BE A NO CALL NO SHOW!
Do’s and Don’ts
• Be prepared for the interview. Eat at the restaurant concept prior to the interview.
• Ask questions about the concept. Bring a pen and a pad with questions written down.
• Show genuine passion about the brand.
• Make sure to bring everything they have asked: resume, references, background forms, etc.
• Be engaging and show high energy.
• Take time to prepare for the interview. Practicing will help, role play if needed.
• Make sure your communication is direct and to the point. Keep your answers to 2-3 minutes.
• Be sincere and always honest.
• Be friendly to guests and staff when you are greeted.
• Don’t make negative comments about past employers.
• Don’t use foul language.
• Don’t bring anyone to the interview with you.
• Never smoke. (even if offered)
Facts Tell, Stories Sell
• Tell specific and real life stories that show your expertise.
• Be prepared to talk numbers: sales, food and labor costs, and profits that you managed.
Leave a Lasting Impression
• Ask the interviewer for their business card.
• Send a thank you letter or email to the interviewer.
• It is ok to ask the interviewer at the end of the interview: “Where do we go from here?”.
• Shake hands with the interviewer after the interview and thank them for the opportunity.
We Believe in YOU!! Go Get Em!!
Studies show that 93% of communication is non-verbal. That means the most important thing that you will do is not necessarily what you say in an interview. Recognizing your non-verbal performance is a key to a successful interview.
To do so, make sure you are conscious of your:
By following this simple advice, you will be sure to have strong non-verbal communication that will make the chances of a successful interview increase.
It is believed that 95% of hiring decisions are made within the first 5 minutes of an interview. For that reason it is imperative to get off to a strong start in an interview. By making a strong first impression you maximize your level of comfort and confidence in an interview while giving your interviewer a more dynamic experience that will be more effective.
Here are a few things you should do to ensure you give off a strong first impression:
By adhering to this simple advice you will be sure to make a strong first impression that will increase the chances of a successful interview.
For further advice on how to succeed in the career search and interviewing process, contact AGI Hospitality today.
