10 Tips to Succeed On The Spot Interview

An on-the-spot interview is also known as a walk-in, or open, interview. It is a planned event where all the candidates appear simultaneously, and are questioned on the spot. The candidates who are not interested in the job, or unsuitable for the organisation will be eliminated during the on-the-spot interview.

10 Tips to Prepare for the On-The-Spot Interview

The on-the-spot interview is typically conducted to fill a position that has recently become vacant, or that will be opening soon.

The following is the step-by-step guide to prepare for the on-the-spot interview:

1. Do Research

Before you show up for an interview, find out as much as possible about the position you are interviewing for. Visiting their website, and learning more about what they do is the best way. Learn about their target market, areas of expertise, and mission. Also, thoroughly study the job description that the employers have provided.

If a job description is not provided before the interview, read about positions at companies that are comparable to the one you are applying for to get the main duties that might be included. Also, quickly look at the headlines to see whether they have recently achieved remarkably. Researching might give you some ideas for things to ask them if they give you an on-the-spot interview. It also shows your interest in working with them.

2. Prepare and Practice

Before applying for a job, updating your CV is always a good idea, but it’s crucial when you’re going to an interview. Making a first impression includes both your physical appearance and your resume. A recruiter will probably look at your CV as soon as the interview starts. Be sure to highlight any expertise specific to the position you are applying for, and mention your recent work experience.

The recruiters frequently have to interview many candidates in a short time, on-the-spot interviews are typically shorter than planned interviews. You need to have well thought out responses prepared for the interviewer’s questions because you don’t have much time to make an impression.

3. Formal Attire

Make sure to dress properly if there is any chance that you might be called in for an on-the-spot interview. Even if you are not offered an immediate interview, you will still be having meetings with companies. When choosing what to dress in to drop off your resume at a company, consider the position you are applying for. If you are visiting career fairs, you should dress like you are attending an interview.

Finance and legal roles in a corporation require formal business attire, but retail and restaurant positions more frequently require business casual attire. Ensure no dazzling jewellery or busy shirt patterns are worn during interviews. Be cautious to keep your surroundings neat, and your outfit free of wrinkles.

4. Early Arrive

Like normal interviews, arriving early to show the interviewer you are prepared and excited about the position is essential. It is advantageous to arrive early to avoid long waits while attending job fairs. Being on time is important when speaking with an interviewer, even if you are unaware that an interview will occur. Many candidates compete with you, so showing up before the start time is helpful to avoid a long line.

5. Request a Delay

You can be approached for an on-the-spot interview while working on a task. Ask the interviewer if you can call them back in a few minutes, so you can wrap up what you are working on, and find a private area to talk. This allows you to be in the frame of mind for the interview. Asking for a later time helps you refocus, and respond to questions more effectively because you think better without interruptions. Most employers consider the delay a reasonable request, particularly if you give a justification.

6. Keep Your Resume Available

It’s always best to keep extra copies of your resume on hand when applying for an interview in case an interviewer calls you unexpectedly. Ensure that your resume is current, and lists all your relevant experience for the position you’re applying to. Always consider taking some hard copies of your resume when you leave. Taking a dozen hard copies of your resumes for job fairs is advisable to distribute them to employers you meet.

7. Use STAR Method

When behavioural questions are asked, be ready to use the STAR method to elaborate on your response, like discussing a time you dealt with a difficult client. This strategy involves the situation, task, action, and result. Describe the situation under which the specific behaviour occurred.

The task, or your role, in the situation, or problem, should be described, followed by the action you did to resolve it. The final step briefly describes the outcomes you attained through your actions and any remarkable results you achieved. Using the STAR method, you can provide concise answers to questions regarding your work challenges, and how you overcame them.

8. Be Short

On-the-spot interviews are occasionally shorter than regular ones, so when the interviewer asks who you are and why you are interested in the position, be prepared to summarise yourself. Additionally, to prevent rambling throughout the interview, take a moment to gather your thoughts before answering each question.

9. Treat As Normal

While on-the-spot interviews appear more relaxed than traditional ones, you should still dress properly, and consider the standard interview techniques. Consider developing a connection with the interviewer by mentioning something you may have in common. Avoid filler words like “uh,” pay close attention to the questions they ask, keep your answers limited, and maintain a respectful attitude.

10. Engage The Interviewer

Within 24 hours of finishing an interview, contact the interviewer by phone or email to express your appreciation for the chance to talk about the position. Use this opportunity to comment on some of your interview responses, or share any extra information about yourself that you could not cover during the interview. Wrap your follow-up by conveying the value you can bring to the company.

On-The-spot Hiring Tips for Responding to an Employer

Use these tips to respond to an employer during the on-the-spot interview process:

1. Request Time to Think

You don’t have to decide immediately to choose a job just because a company offers you one. You might ask them to specify a time, so you can consider their offer. In this manner, you may assess whether it’s truly what you want to accomplish.

2. Show Gratitude

Thank the interviewer for this wonderful opportunity. Ensure you’re interested in learning more about their business, and the position. By showing that this is an excellent opportunity, you can establish a positive rapport even if you choose to accept a different employment offer.

3. Make a Decision for Yourself

Even if the interviewer might try to convince you to accept the offer, it’s crucial that you act in your own interest. Spend some time considering the interview, and the interviewer’s impression on you. You might even compile a list of advantages and disadvantages to help you decide.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Should You Bring to an On-The-Spot Interview?

The following are the important things you should bring to an on-the-spot interview:

• Copies of your resume.
• Pen and notepad.
• Reference letters, if any.

2. What Are the Things You Need to Consider If You’re Hired on the Spot?

The following are the three main things you need to consider when you’re hired on the spot:

• Do not feel compelled to accept immediately.
• Ask questions about why the quick offer of the position was given.
• Be as kind as you possibly can.

Closing Thoughts

Leaving your resume at a business, or attending a job fair may result in a request for an immediate interview. An immediate interview might expedite the job search and move you one step closer to your ideal position. Even though a spontaneous interview may first seem strange, and unrelated to a scheduled interview, you can still leave a positive impression by following the same professional guidelines. 

LogicMelon

Award-winning recruitment software that will find, attract, hire and analyse the way you want to work. At LogicMelon, we have experienced software recruitment marketing specialists to help you build effective recruitment solutions supported by the best customer service you’ll find anywhere!

Email: sales@logicmelon.com or call LogicMelon (UK) +44 (0) 203 553 3667 (USA) +1 860 269 3089