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Robert Half Mock Interview

Question 3 of 35 for our Robert Half Mock Interview

Robert Half was updated by on September 29th, 2019. Learn more here.

Question 3 of 35

When have you had to change a search due to new information from your client?

"Just last month, I had a client who needed to find ten territory sales reps in 60 days. The job order was one of the largest that I had ever taken. The territories had been outlined clearly, which was great. I could call candidates and be very clear with them on the travel expectations and percentage of overnight travel. Partway through my search, the client returned and said that they decided to hire just five people and double up on the territories. I had to call my shortlisted candidates again and ask them if they were open to more extensive travel than originally discussed. Luckily, most of them were open to the idea; however, I did lose three top candidates due to the change. I have learned in the recruitment industry to be flexible and roll with the punches. Constant communication with clients and candidates helps ensure that I won't miss a beat if needs change."

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How to Answer: When have you had to change a search due to new information from your client?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Robert Half job interview.

  • 3. When have you had to change a search due to new information from your client?

      How to Answer

      Recruitment projects can change on a dime for a variety of reasons. In the staffing industry, you may find that your client calls off a search entirely after you have poured all of your energy into it for two weeks.

      Other situations may change, such as their ideal background or candidate education. Perhaps the client forgot to mention that the role requires extensive travel or eventual relocation.

      Talk to the interviewer about a time when you had to pivot your search due to new information. Discuss how you reacted and what you did to keep the momentum going. Most of all, Robert Half wants to see that you are adaptable.

      Written by Rachelle Enns on August 19th, 2021

      1st Answer Example

      "Just last month, I had a client who needed to find ten territory sales reps in 60 days. The job order was one of the largest that I had ever taken. The territories had been outlined clearly, which was great. I could call candidates and be very clear with them on the travel expectations and percentage of overnight travel. Partway through my search, the client returned and said that they decided to hire just five people and double up on the territories. I had to call my shortlisted candidates again and ask them if they were open to more extensive travel than originally discussed. Luckily, most of them were open to the idea; however, I did lose three top candidates due to the change. I have learned in the recruitment industry to be flexible and roll with the punches. Constant communication with clients and candidates helps ensure that I won't miss a beat if needs change."

      Written by Rachelle Enns on August 19th, 2021

      2nd Answer Example

      "I had a client who, after interviewing my top three candidates, decided that they only wanted to see candidates with post-secondary degrees. I moved on to seek out and present only candidates with college degrees. The client was happy in the end and ended up choosing the very first candidate I submitted. I am glad that I complied rather than fight the situation because it all worked out well in the end."

      Written by Rachelle Enns on August 19th, 2021

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