We understand interviews can be daunting, so we've gathered insights from Lead Skilled Assessors (LSAs) Emily Roberts and Nicole Williams. In this blog, they share insight in their role and helpful tips to help you prepare for the role-play portion of your interview.
Emily McRoberts, Lead Skilled Assessor
What is your role as an LSA?
As an LSA for the Gartner Client Services and Research Engagement teams, I’m responsible for guiding candidates through the final stage of the interview process. My goal is to thoroughly evaluate and identify candidates who have the ideal traits and experience necessary to thrive within the Gartner team.
What is the role-play portion of the interview and how should a candidate prepare?
The role-play simulates a real-life scenario related to the position. Candidates receive the scenario in advance to prepare before engaging with the assessor. Preparation involves considering potential scenarios, practicing mock role-plays and researching advanced questioning techniques. During the interview prep time, candidates should thoroughly understand the brief, ask clarifying questions and jot down key points or a structure, avoiding a scripted approach.
What are your top tips to help candidates succeed during the role-play portion of the interview?
- Leverage the prompt information to guide your conversation and achieve the scenario's objectives.
- Establish a clear structure by setting an agenda at the start to outline your intentions and maintain control.
- Demonstrate active listening by responding to the assessor's input, ensuring your conversation flows naturally and isn't scripted.
Nicole Williams, Lead Skilled Assessor
What is your role as an LSA?
As an LSA, my role is to serve as a vital link between our Talent Acquisition Leadership teams and the sales organizations I support. In essence, I act as the liaison, bridging Talent Acquisition and the business to drive successful recruitment outcomes.
What is the role-play portion of the interview and how should a candidate prepare?
The role-play portion of the interview is a 10- to 15-minute-long sales discovery call.
I would highly recommend understanding what a discovery call is. My advice is to speak with your recruiter if you have any doubts. Your recruiter is someone who you can lean on and prepare for the interview with.
What are your top tips to help candidates succeed during the role-play portion of the interview?
Be as naturally curious as possible. Do NOT come with a script prepared.
We want to see your agility. For example, how you can actively listen and then ask another open-ended question based on the response I provided.
Remember that we need to create value and urgency for the client. That means you will want to really understand the goals and timelines of the person you are talking to.
Are you interested in joining the Gartner team? Search for an opportunity here.