People all over the world are becoming increasingly conscious of their physical appearance. As a result, beauty therapy has grown to become a billion dollar industry. If you are applying for a job as a beautician, you need to find a way of standing out from the numerous candidates out there. Here is how you should answer the following commonly asked questions in beautician interviews:
1. 'What do you know about us?'
The interviewer wants to know if you did your research about the potential employer before going for the interview. You need to demonstrate knowledge about the history of the company and its vision. Talk about the retail products and beauty brands that are used in the company. In addition, you need to show familiarity with the specialist services offered such as waxing, body scrubs, hair colouring, manicure or pedicure.
2. 'Why do you want to work for us?'
When asking this question, the interviewer would want to know your motivation for applying for the job. Don’t make the mistake of mentioning your desire for higher pay. You could begin by demonstrating your understanding of the company’s vision, and then show how your passion and skills would be a good fit.
3. 'How many services/clients can you handle in a month/week/day?'
The interviewer would want to know how much work you can get done within a specific period of time. Avoid the temptation of lying in order to impress the interviewer. Give a realistic image, which you are confident you can deliver.
4. 'Would you bring customers from your current or former salon?'
This is a trick question, which should be answered with utmost care. Mention that you wouldn’t think of poaching customers from former or current employers since this would not be ethical. However, you could say that since you are good at your job, your clients might just follow you out of their own volition.
5. 'What hours are you available?'
The work of a beautician is very demanding and usually requires long hours. Unlike other jobs which have fixed hours, you might find yourself having to work on some weekends or even nights. Therefore, you need to assure the interviewer that you are ready to be flexible depending on the demands of the job.
6. 'What are your strengths?'
When it comes to strengths, only mention those traits that would be useful in the beauty industry. For instance, you could say that you have a strong work ethic, superior customer care skills, excellent time management skills, the ability to work with a team and a willingness to learn.
7. 'What are your weaknesses?'
As for weaknesses, don’t say anything that would disqualify you. For example, you could say that you are prone to taking too much responsibility or being too trusting. However, don’t forget to add ‘…but I’m working on it’ at the end of your weakness or you could just mention a weakness that you managed to overcome in the recent past. This will show that you are constantly taking steps to improve yourself.
8. 'Describe a challenging work situation and how you handled it.'
The work of a beautician comes with many diverse challenges. The interviewer wants to be certain that you have what it takes to handle such situations in a logical, tactful and professional way. Think of a problematic situation at your previous or current job that you resolved successfully. Describe the situation clearly, mention what you did and what the results were. Make sure that you never put a negative spin on your answer.
9. 'What are your future plans?'
The interviewer would want to know where your beauty career is headed and if it fits the company’s vision. For instance, you could say that you want to specialize in one specific area of beauty therapy within the next two years. You could also mention your plans to take courses in order to help you achieve your goals.
10. 'Do you have any questions?'
This question is inevitable in almost every interview. Be sure to ask at least three sensible questions related to the job you are being interviewed for. This will show that you are actually interested in their business and that you have done your homework.
Take time to think about your response to each of the questions mentioned above and personalise your answers. This will enhance your chances of getting that dream job.
Have you ever been in similar interview? If so, comment below your own personal experience.