What Employers Want (KS5)

You could, but what if they really want the job and just tell you what you want to hear? Even if they say they can do it, do you really know they can?

This will give you some good information. If they can’t give you an example, or they give you an example but can't really describe it, they may not really be able to do it!

Yes! If they can do this, then you can be pretty sure they will be able to do it as part of the job.

No. Programming is a skill (which also requires some knowledge!), not a behaviour. Try again.

Hmm... that’s interesting. Some people might say decision making is a behaviour. But some people might say it’s a skill. There is a better answer.

Yes! That’s right.

Possibly, as this may have an impact on how long it could take them to travel to work.

Yes! That’s right. Often, even if you don’t have the technical skill or experience, an employer will be looking for signs that you’re keen to learn and willing to put your energies and focus into a new role.

Yes, often. It can be very interesting to employers if the candidate can highlight knowledge and interest in their products and/or the market they work in. It gives a flavour of how the candidate may apply themselves at work.

Actually, yes, it really could, even if you’re only a few minutes late. Showing up late for the interview appointment could make the employer think that you could be unreliable and would potentially be late for work. Or, worse still, even not turn up. Employers are looking for candidates who show a keen desire to work for their company and also who are organised, which includes good timekeeping.

It often will make a difference and won’t make you look good in front of the employer. Sometimes, though, even if you’ve planned everything and left good time, things don’t go right on the day. Your bus may not show up or there may be technical difficulties joining the video interview. If this is the case, you must try to call or email the manager/interviewer to let them know you’re delayed and why. Then join the interview as soon as you can. Hopefully they’ll understand that the situation was out of your control.

Absolutely right. The employer may see this as a sign that you aren’t really serious about their role or their company. You want to start the interview on a positive note and make a good impression. Being late is really not a good thing.