Hays Interview Questions
& Process

It was a really structured interview process! It felt more like a simulation of real-life scenarios, showing how you'd act when either recruiting a candidate or dealing with a client. Honestly, it was pretty fun and definitely eye-opening. It wasn't the typical 'why do you want this job' kind of interview, but more about how quickly you can think on your feet.

You'll start with a brief intro from the interview panel, usually the hiring manager, a team member, and someone impartial from HR or another department. The hiring manager will quickly go over the job description, then the questions begin. Each panelist will ask a pre-planned question, some about the specific role, others more general, like dealing with a tough client and how you resolved it. Take a moment to think before answering; rambling right away can suggest you're not qualified. Expect around 6 pre-planned questions, usually two per panelist if there are three. Afterwards, they'll ask some general questions: about your questions for them (definitely ask some, it shows interest!), any upcoming leave, and your notice period. They might also check if the salary is what you expected. Asking questions is crucial; it shows you're engaged. A good one is asking what they dislike about working there – it makes them think and reveals a lot about the workplace. Practicing your STAR method answers is a good idea and will be appreciated if done well and relevantly. The whole thing might feel long at 45 minutes, but with intros, outros, and questions, it's about 5 minutes per question.

Hays was handling recruitment for a major bank. I applied, and an individual with a disguised name set up a phone interview. While their anonymity is acceptable, it's odd they didn't put names on the email. They surprisingly called me two hours before our scheduled time, which was okay since we'd be talking anyway. The interviewer seemed dispassionate, which is fine, as everyone's got their own thing. BUT, when I started speaking, there was dead silence for three minutes. Then, they interrupted me and started firing questions that lacked basic logic. I found myself having to explain things I've never had to with any other recruiter, and the interviewer acted like I messed up. I remained professional throughout, trying to answer questions like 'but where are you located, why didn’t you say that in your resume?' — questions not even in the job description, making me feel like a criminal. The Hays recruiter's lack of professionalism and understanding was frankly ridiculous! To top it off, they kept saying 'we CANNOT help you,' as if I asked for assistance! They concluded the call as if I'd committed some fraud. Hays recruitment is RUDE, ARROGANT, UNPROFESSIONAL, acting like they're the center of the universe; just imagine working with them as a contractor. They have NO ETHICS!

You'll start with a pre-screening call. After that, you'll get a time to join an assessment center. This is usually in a group setting and has three parts: an ice breaker, a debate, and a role play. They're all designed to see how you handle pressure and think critically. It can be tough, and some people don't get past the first round. They'll offer feedback on your answers, which can be really insightful. Don't get discouraged by it, see it as a chance to learn. If you want to nail other interviews, try Hays first. You'll be so prepared for tough questions, you'll ace everything else.