Points to Assess at the Personal Interview with Candidates

Punctuality

Even knowing that candidates sometimes need to travel to unfamiliar areas, it is important that they demonstrate their sense of responsibility and professionalism by arriving on time. To make this easier, it is essential to provide them with the most precise directions possible so that they can find you without difficulty, give them your phone number in case they get lost, and let them know the nearest public transport stop, where to alight, nearby landmarks and the names of the main surrounding streets.

Good Appearance and Impeccable Personal Hygiene

As with any job interview, good personal presentation and hygiene are important; however, in this case, and bearing in mind that the main activity for which candidates will be hired is directly related to cleanliness, careful personal hygiene and good presentation are even more decisive.

Based on my experience, I consider these first two points to be decisive in making the right choice of future employee. Other skills can be refined and trained to your preferences — but without a sense of responsibility, reliability and attention to personal hygiene, the time spent will be wasted.

Formal Address (Usted)

We always recommend that the interview is conducted using the formal mode of address (“usted”) by both parties. If the candidate addresses you informally, please ask them politely, at that very moment, to use the formal “usted” instead.

Completing the Candidate’s Personal Form

This allows you to evaluate the candidate carefully over the following hours or days before reaching a decision. (We provide a sample form to guide you on what questions to ask at the interview; you may photocopy it for each candidate.) Candidates should willingly and without reservation provide references from previous positions held in Spain.

Describe the Main Duties They Will Be Required to Perform

List these in order of importance and indicate the standard of quality you consider particularly essential for your satisfaction.

Do Not Be Concerned If the Candidate Requests Full Recognition of Their Legal Rights

Under the collective agreement (convenio), reliable workers need the reassurance that there will be no surprises in the future. This is a very positive sign for employment stability.

Allow at least 24 hours on both sides before giving a final answer, so that you have time to check references.