We realize that making the right career choice is a big decision. We are committed to ensuring that you have all of the information needed in order to advance your career in the right direction. The two most important things to keep in mind are:

1. You never get a second chance to make a first impression.
2. 25% of the interview is based on qualifying technical skills. The remaining 75% is based on chemistry, personality and how those come together to equal mutual benefit for everyone involved. (longevity, motivation, achievement, commitment, etc)

Here are other important pointers to prepare for that successful interview:

1. Educate yourself about the hotel and the management company.
2. Research both on the Internet.
3. Arrive early to the property.
4. Mingle with the staff.
5. Evaluate the surroundings. *This will impress the interviewer.
6. Take time to listen to the questions being asked so you answer them thoroughly.

Presentation:

1. Half of the interview is over within the first 30 seconds with the very first impression.
2. Wear a business suit. Be covered from neck to knees. We have found that limited jewelry is best, (i.e., one earring each ear, one ring each hand, and a watch- is most acceptable. The person you are meeting with may be very conservative.)
3. Smile a lot and be aware that your body language shows just how confident and interested you really are.

Set yourself apart from all the other candidates with a Professional Portfolio:

1. Include a crisp copy of your most up to date resume, complete with all contact information
2. Create a summary sheet of your career highlights and accomplishments
• How your efforts contributed to past properties' successes, ADR increase, REV PAR?
• Awards or recognitions (ie: Sales Manager of the Quarter)
• Specialized training and/or certifications obtained
• Include copies of newspaper articles, reference letters and/or customer comments written on your behalf

Demonstrate confidence and knowledge about your role in the industry:

1. Prepare to discuss how you generated revenue and/or executed a plan at your previous property.
2. You might want to refer to contacts you have in the area (generally speaking).
3. Keep in mind that when speaking of past employment, focus on positives ending w/ short negative, if necessary.
4. Ask questions about the property. It shows your interest and keep in mind, this is your opportunity to gain information too.
• How is the sales team set up?
• What is the chain of command?
• Ask "what goals would be expected of me?"
• "How will they be measured?"
• What challenges has the property faced?

please refer to Interview Questions to Ask attachment also)

Current and past employment:
Most likely, you will be asked, "why are you looking to make a change?"

1. Speak positively about past positions
2. Keep reasons for leaving brief
3. AVOID NEGATIVE COMMENTS ABOUT PAST EMPLOYERS.

**Avoid discussing all details about salary, benefits, vacations, etc.*** Remain neutral with salary. 1. The interviewer may mention a lower range to test your interest in the salary vs. the property. 2. If the subjects arises, you should mention that you are aware of the pay range 3. Please keep in mind that we are your advocates! 4. Snelling will contact you to present an offer for employment. 5. We will obtain all details about benefits, bonuses, and vacation from the interviewer. 6. We will ensure that you have all of the necessary details about the job and the company prior to accepting a position.

THE CLOSE. The second most important aspect of a successful interview:

• Say, "I am excited about this opportunity." "I am eager to join your team."
• "What concerns do you have about considering me?"
• "When do you expect to make a hiring decision?"
• End the interview on positive note. You want to keep all contacts open in the Industry.

Please call us as soon as you can after the interview. I need to have your feedback before I call the hiring authority for his/her impressions. Our credibility is at stake. They expect us to call right away and that shows them how excited you are about the position.

Please remind us to give you the e-mail address of the hiring authority when you call. Send a thank-you e-mail as soon as possible following the interview. We have some suggestions for writing thank you letters if you need them.

Snelling Search represents the best, most qualified candidates--YOU. You sound so great on the phone and I know that your experiences will be a tremendous asset in your career endeavors. The right property would be honored to have you on their team. We are absolutely delighted that you have chosen us to be your advocate during this process. We are eager to receive your feedback. Please call us as soon as you finish your interview. It is our sincere pleasure to assist you in advancing your career.

Kind regards,
The Snelling Search Team
330-836-9901