INTERVIEW ENVIRONMENT?

[IDB]

Hi,

I'm in a fortunate position, that I have today, secured a 2nd interview for an Assistant role.

The company has a maximum of 10 people, therefore is open plan and is a company I would really like to work for.  There is only one office which is where the MD and 4 others sit, including the Accountant. 

I had my 1st interview last week which took place in the office alongside the MD and 4 other people.  I felt a little uncomfortable at first but as we were only going through past roles and responsibilities it was ok. 

Tomorrow's interview I'm pretty sure, will take place in the MD's office to discuss salary, hours, etc.  I really don't want to discuss this sort of thing in front of other people, other than the MD.

If this should happen how do I ask to be interviewed elsewhere as I don't want to sound rude or impolite and shatter my chances of securing this role?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. 

Thank you 

[gee4]

That's a tricky one although I would feel the same.  Maybe they want the accountant to hear!

Is there a ballpark figure that has already been mentioned?  Do the panel already know the currently salary or level you are at?  Did you mention it at the previous interview or on your application form?  Most interview panels will have already gauged an idea of your level and currently salary even if you haven't disclosed it.

I suggest you run with the second interview and see how it pans out.  Salary is sometimes not discussed until an offer is made, although at this level, we usually know what we are looking for that is going to make a move worthwhile.

Obviously you want to better yourself and negotiate a higher salary than you are on at present but you should always wait for the panel to mention salary, never raise it yourself.  A simple way of indicating a figure is by saying, "I would be looking for something in the region of £xxxx on top of my current salary".  You could always ask for a pen and paper to write it down if you felt it was impossible to say.

[IDB]

Thanks Gee,

No panel just MD, Accountant (which is ok), but the others were employees, ie other Assistants.

A ball park figure on the salary was mentioned, only via email on my initial application.

I've noted your comments and as you say, employers normally state specifics when they actually make an offer.

I appreciate your time in getting back to me to and.......I can now "see the wood, for the trees!"

Thank you again.

Regards 

[msmarieh]

Good luck with your interview. I would be quite shocked if someone wanted to discuss salary in an open area like that. I think I wouldn't worry too much about the possibility. Hmmm not sure quite what I would do in that circumstance, but I guess I would suggest that we adjourn to a more private location.

[IDB]

Hmm yes MS - thanks.   Awkward and uncomfortable.  I'll update tomorrow to let y'all know how and what the situation was.
 
Thank you 

[gee4]

How did you get on??

[IDB]

Hi Gee,

2nd Interview went well, in the same environment.  No awkward/personal questions were asked.

Unfortunately, they decided to go with another candidate for the role.............sigh!

Thanks for the initial advice, it was very helpful.

Regards,