Getting some insight from a different perspective, from someone who knows what it is like on both sides of the interview table is invaluable and rare.
It is not often that we get to know exactly what an employer is looking for and what really makes or breaks an interview, most of the time we are applying for a role with little direction on what it is we should be shouting about.
We had the opportunity to change all of that, we interviewed Natalie, a Blue Arrow recruiter who specialises in placing candidates into jobs within the warehouse and logistics industry. During this interview we wanted to open up the secret world of recruitment and find out what recruiters are looking for in a warehouse candidate, what you can do to improve your chances of landing a job, and what you should be thinking about when considering a job as a warehouse worker.
You can read the full interview with Natalie here and really take advantage of her insights and advice, but if you are busy running here and there, making every moment count don’t worry here are Natalie’s top 10 tips for improving your chances of landing a warehouse job and succeeding in the position.
1. Make a call
Always call to follow up after you have submitted your CV online. With so many CV’ submitted for each job and time being of the essence, calling the branch to follow up after you have submitted your CV online draws our attention to your CV immediately giving you a boost above other candidates who might not have the initiative to call.
2. Put your best foot forward
We are looking for candidates who really want to be there, who want to succeed and do the best job they can so have a great answer lined up when you are asked why you want this job. We want to know, why this job over any other.
3. Be selective and realistic
Check the essential skills listed in the job advert and make sure you have everything that is listed. If you need a license, do you have it? If not, don’t waste your time applying there will be another more suitable position for you, perhaps call the branch if you are unsure.
4. Plan ahead
Remember to check the location of the job before you apply and make sure you can reliably get to work and back every day, think about transport options and travel time allowances.
5. Visualise
Take the time to think about the position you are applying for, can you see yourself doing this job every day? Is there anything that makes you unsure about your ability to do the job effectively?
6. Start as you mean to go on
Treat your discussions with the agency as the first stage of the interview process. Be upbeat, happy and confident. Speak with a smile and have a professional attitude.
7. Think of a practical application where you have put the desired skills into practice.
While it is ideal to be able to link skills to your work history, don’t worry if you can’t. We display these skills in many aspects of life whether it be parenting, studying, caring so draw for any personal experience you can to demonstrate how you have developed the skills instead if needed.
8. The most important skill you can have is the ability to work to targets
Working to targets is extremely important in this industry so it is worth talking about in some sort of context on your CV and during your interview.
9. You get out what you put in.
The key to success in temporary warehouse work is 100% effort in and you will get 100% back.
10. Think permanent not temporary!
If you go in to a job with a positive attitude of long term permanent work your behaviour will reflect this and those responsible for hiring will see that you are dedicated and enthusiastic making you an ideal candidate for a permanent position.
If you think you have what it takes to be a warehouse worker or you know someone who is looking for a job and would make an excellent candidate, the link you need to view all of our current opportunities is right here.
Job seekers
Join the Blue Arrow family, click here to see our latest warehouse jobs
Salary Checkers
Wondering what your take home pay will be, click here and check out our handy salary calculator tool
Career builders
Click here to access our free CV templates and our guide to creating a great CV
