You might think that landing an interview for that new job is the tough part, but new research suggest getting the ideal time slot can make all the difference to success – and unfortunately the timing is often out of your hands.

A study from the Harvard School of Business and The Wharton School closely studied the outcome of MBA admission interviews with surprising results. It appears that the interviewers the applicants they saw in the morning more highly than those who had afternoon slots. The researchers put this down to burn out from earlier interviews which means they fail to get the best information from the afternoon’s candidates – and it’s a pattern that is likely to be very similar in the job market. Frequently companies will plan one or two days where they will interview all shortlisted candidates during both the morning and the afternoon. But if you’re one of the ones who gets allocated an afternoon time slot your interviewer may be suffering from decision fatigue leaving you out of the running.

So maybe the thought process of "I'll take the last slot available so I'm the freshest in their mind" is not a wise move as the interviewer may not take the time (or effort) to conduct a thorough interview. Choose your slot carefully and most importantly take the time to prepare and research!

For tips or guidance on interview techniques or how to approach your job search, please contact Think Specialist Recruitment - 01442 450585 - and we would be delighted to assist.

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