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A job interview at TOPdesk

Talking to total strangers for 60 to 90 minutes is stressful. Even more so when it’s a job interview. How will you know afterwards if you said all the necessary things? Read on and completely forget all that stress! We’re happy to take you through your first job interview. That way, there’ll be no surprises.

A relaxed start

Let’s begin with what we find extremely important at TOPdesk: an honest introduction to the person behind the CV. We want to get to know you as you are and we’ll do everything possible to put you at ease. That way, you’ll feel free to talk openly about your knowledge and skills, as well as your hobbies and interests.

We’re also very curious about why you applied to TOPdesk and what expectations you have of your future employer. We all need to get to know one another. So introductions go both ways! You’ll have two strangers sitting opposite you, so it’s best that we also tell you who we are and what our role is at TOPdesk. We’ll be happy to answer all your questions about working at TOPdesk, so you can decide if this is the place for you.

Your experience

We’ll dive into your CV together: your background, interests, previous jobs, and the reasons behind specific choices you made in your career. We’ll also try to find out what competencies you have and if they’re indeed a match with the vacancy you applied for.

Rest assured: there are no wrong answers in a job interview. We’re mainly interested in how you work and think. We use the STAR method for this.

Rest assured: there are no wrong answers in a job interview. We’re mainly interested in how you work and think.

What exactly is the STAR method?

STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action and Result. We use this classification for asking questions about the competencies we consider important. For example, a typical TOPdesker likes to take the initiative, is independent, customer-focused, responsible, and eager to learn.

Together, we’ll go through a situation in which you went the extra mile for a customer. We’ll discuss the part you played and the thinking behind the actions you took. How did you take action, what was the result, and how did it make you feel? We often also use the optional extra “R”: Reflection (STARR). What lessons did you learn, and what would you do differently in the future?

A good start is half the battle

The STAR method gives you the opportunity to thoroughly prepare for your interview. You can probably easily recall events that caused you to feel stress, frustration, joy, satisfaction or pride. What exactly do they say about you, your way of working and your talents? In preparation, do a skills analysis and compare it with the vacancy you’re applying for. Do your competencies match the role?

We believe that self-knowledge is more important than ticking all the boxes. What attributes can you develop? Are you willing to ask for help and eager to learn new things? With honest answers to these questions and convincing reasoning, you’ll be well on your way!

In short, thorough preparation is a good start. And a good start is half the battle. Did questions crop up during your preparation? That’s only logical! Write them down and ask away. Would you like to know more about the content of the role, our company culture, your salary, growth opportunities? It’s good to think about these things! We’ll be happy to tell you exactly what to expect at TOPdesk.

Ready to apply?

Go straight to your favourite vacancy. Like to learn more about TOPdesk job interviews? Read the interview with Leander Overmeer, Head of Recruitment at TOPdesk.