Table of contents

Have a professional presentation on the day of the interview

Even if your interview takes place via video, you should be careful about what you wear. Avoid dressing too casually (shorts, flip-flops, ripped jeans), an unshaven beard, or unkempt hair. Hang it up if it is long.

If you are aiming for an executive or other responsible job, even more professional attire is required.

Keep in mind your strengths and weaknesses

It is common for recruiters to ask a candidate about their weaknesses. Anticipate this question beforehand by thinking about "sellable" weaknesses. Indeed, if you are clumsy or lack punctuality, it is better to avoid communicating this to your recruiter.

Here are some admitted weaknesses:
- being talkative, presenting it as a way to communicate well;
- being slow: you are in fact conscientious and diligent.

Strengths are generally easier to find.

Think about the questions that may be asked

Think about the questions you are likely to be asked before the interview for your temporary assignment. This will enable you to answer them better, without stammering. It is highly likely that you will be asked questions about :
- your past experience in relation to the position;
- your background and educational choices ;
- your availability (deadlines, hours, night, weekend or holiday work);
- your motivations for working in a particular company.

Organising to be punctual

If the interview takes place via video, make sure you know how to use the login interface. Log in at least 10 to 15 minutes before the appointment time to make sure there are no last-minute technical problems.

In face-to-face meetings, also try to arrive about 10 minutes early. When travelling to the interview venue, choose a safe mode of transport and alternatives in case of unforeseen problems (car breakdown, transport strike, etc.).

Make sure you have provided a complete dossier before the interview

It is essential that the temp agency has all the documents it has requested from you before the interview starts. An incomplete file will make you look disorganised or unmotivated. Send them an e-mail a few days before the appointment, or give them the documents in person at the latest the day before the interview. No documents should be missing.

Prepare questions to ask

Your recruiter will probably ask you if you have any questions to post about future assignments. Have something to answer, otherwise you will come across as unmotivated. For example, you can ask questions about the number of employees in the company, its hierarchical organisation, or the characteristics of the tasks you will be given.

Practising in front of others to present themselves

You should be able to present yourself professionally in less than 5 minutes. Practice in front of a trusted friend or relative to present :
- your training course ;
- your past work experience;
- your motivations for working as a temp;
- your interest in the proposed assignment;
- your strengths and values relevant to the type of position you are seeking.

Thinking about personal motivations for interim work

In most cases, your recruiter will ask you about your motivation to :
- working as a temp;
- to occupy such and such a position;
- to have chosen this professional sector rather than another.

Try to come up with short, relevant answers to all these questions about your motivations beforehand. They will convey an image of someone who knows what they want.

Do you want to know more about the best way to prepare for your interview in a temporary employment agency ? You can also talk to people you know who have already worked as temps. You can also ask questions to people who work in a temporary employment agency.