Interview practice makes perfect for aspiring travel industry professionals

While Walsall College’s travel and tourism students are used to planning and preparing journeys and activities on land, sea and air, their most recent outing was to a mock interview room where Co-op Travel Walsall put them through their paces as potential job candidates.

Stacey Crawford, branch manager interviewed 16 students over three days.  They each spent up to 45 minutes responding to questions about themselves and their ambitions.  This was while demonstrating their understanding of the job role they aspire to.

With each student having previously expressed an interest in specific careers or a desire to work for a specific organisation, Stacey tailored her questions accordingly.  At the end of each interview, she shared feedback with each candidate and their lecturer.

This was the first time Co-op Travel Walsall had supported the college’s students in this way and Stacey was pleased with how well they came across.

“I enjoyed meeting all my candidates,” said Stacey.  “I made sure everyone understood that a job interview is more like a conversation than an interrogation.  This made it easier for them to settle in and let their personalities shine through.”

“Hopefully this experience gave them further motivation towards achieving their qualifications and getting their dream jobs.”

Stacey was also happy to share with everyone her top tips for a successful job interview.

“The key things I would encourage people to take away from a mock interview is the importance of being confident and showing enthusiasm for the job you’re going for,” said Stacey.

“Most recruiters start off with a ‘tell us about yourself’ question, which some might find daunting.  The travel industry thrives on being fronted by outgoing, enthusiastic people.  You must ‘big up’ yourself, whether that’s talking about what you have achieved, what you’re currently doing or what your exact career goals are and how you will achieve them.

“Another popular interview question is around sharing what you know about the company you’re applying to work for, so you must do your research,” continued Stacey.

“If you can manage both of these, then you’re off to a great start.”

Summer Mills was one of the students in the mock interview chair.

She said: “I want to work for Co-Op Travel after my college course, so I couldn’t have asked for a better opportunity to prepare than this.  The role of a travel agent suits me as I’m a people-person.  I can see myself helping customers have the best time on their holidays.  I

“I was nervous before I went into the interview room, but once I got in there and met Stacey, my confidence went from zero to ten.  I feel so much more prepared now for being in this situation for real.”