You made a wise choice. Whether you’re seeking your first position after education, re-entering the workforce, or moving forward in an active career, a staffing company will make the journey easier and more productive. Don’t treat your interview with the staffing firm lightly – it is as real as an interview with a potential employer. In fact, many staffing companies are your potential employer – while they will “place” with a client, they pay your wages, benefits, etc.

How do you prepare for and secure a successful interview with a staffing company? Follow these tips.

Before the Interview

Do your research: Get to know the staffing company by browsing their website.

·         Learn their history – study the key facts about the company

·         Check out recent press releases

·         Gain a solid grasp of all their services

·         Know what types of positions they fill

·         Read about their staff – look up their LinkedIn accounts

The more you know about the company, the more relaxed you will be in the interview and the more knowledgeable you will appear. The interviewer(s) quickly perceive which candidates have done their homework. They will know that you respect the company and appreciate the interview. In other words, you are serious about employment opportunities.

Know exactly where you’re going: Take a drive to the company.

·         How much time do you need to allow for travel and parking?

·         Is there company off street parking?

·         Will you need to use a parking garage or bring change for a street meter?

Knowing ahead what to expect will insure that you arrive unflustered and on time.

Gather everything you need: Bring all the necessary documents with you.

·         A “cheat sheet” of all the information you need to fill out various forms.

·         Your resume – make sure it is updated and bring several copies

·         Personal identification

·         Any other specific requests of the staffing company you chose

·         Paper and pen for taking notes

Prepare for your best presentation: Yes, first impressions do make a difference

·         Choose your attire and ensure that it is clean, pressed, and ready to wear. Choose an outfit that matches the types of positions for which you are applying. (Never choose denim)

·         Write out you answers to typical interview questions and practice, practice, practice.

·         Prepare three or four questions of your own – they will ask if you have any.

·         Take care of yourself: Get a goodnight’s sleep and eat healthy – high protein and low carbs help you stay mentally alert.

The Interview

Arrive a few minutes early: This is crucial – if you can’t arrive on time for your interview, how can they trust you to arrive on time for work? It will also help you stay calm and relaxed.

Attitude: This is more important than you can imagine

·         Smile – take the interview seriously, of course, but be upbeat and positive.

·         Be courteous and respectful to everyone – this includes the receptionist.

·         Look people in the eye and give a firm handshake.

·         Listen carefully, and provide well-thought out answers.

As you can see, the key to a great interview rests heavily on the amount of preparation you did before the interview. Sure, everyone experiences butterflies, but being prepared ensures that the butterflies will fly in formation.

We’re glad you made the decision to use a staffing company – it makes good sense. We hope you choose Robbins Staffing Solutions. We serve match candidates and clients in the Charlottesville, Virginia area. Our reputation as #1 stands behind us. Contact us today for an interview.