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Interview Tips

Interview Tips

How To Prepare For Your Private Staff Interview

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The team at Irving Scott will always do their utmost to get you to an interview for a suitable position as a member of private staff, the rest is up to you. Below are a few interview tips for you.

However, we have put together some pointers to bear in mind before and on the day. If we have put you forward for the role then you obviously have the skills and qualities that our client requires. This is the opportunity to show the Principals your skills.

1. Practice your answers

Although there is no set interview format, there are some questions that you can almost guarantee will crop up. Never use a negative example about your experience and please never gossip about former employers, they will assume you will do the same about them! Emphasize personal strengths. Weaknesses can be suggested in a positive way. Never talk about what you can’t do, talk about what you can do, as well as being able to prove why you would be the best person for the job.

2. Look the part of Private Staff

Appearances shouldn’t matter, but the plain fact is that you are often judged before you’ve even uttered a word. Make sure your shoes are polished, your clothes fit correctly, no short skirts please and that your accessories are subtle. We always advise wearing dark colours and minimal make up for ladies (if you have long hair, please tie it back) and please avoid heavy perfume or after-shave.

3. Stay calm

Good preparation is the key to staying in control. Plan your route, allowing extra time for any unexpected delays, and get everything you need to take with you ready the night before. Please take a hard copy of your CV in a presentation folder and any certificates you have that sell your skills and experience. Always use the term Madam or Sir and speak clearly, smile and remember that a respectful manner is a quality that all of our clients are looking for.

4. Ask questions

You should always have some questions prepared. This will demonstrate your interest in the position. Prepare a minimum of five questions, some which will give you more information about the job, and some which delve deeper into what is expected of you. Never discuss money, this is our role and we will obviously do our best to get you the most appropriate salary.

We will let you know as soon as we have some feedback from the client, and although we cannot guarantee success, you will still have proved to the client that you are a true professional. We will do our best to give you a detailed and accurate job description, but please do not forget that we are happy to answer any questions or offer any advice if you need it.

Following these interview tips can help you achieve great results when finding a good job. 

Interested in joining our team?

“To me, Irving Scott means trustworthiness. A core principle so hard to find. They spent quite a bit of time with me getting to know my personality outside of my CV.”

domestic staff agency