Virtual Interviews: How To Stand Out
17 March 2021
Virtual Interviews: How To Stand Out

2020 has changed the way we work. Virtual interviews, once a last resort with which to fully qualify applicants for a permanent position, have become de rigueur. 


Where previously candidates walking into an interview could gain a certain amount of assurance from the intuitive nature of face-to-face communication, virtual meetings require a greater level of engagement to achieve the right rapport. The following principles are worth bearing in mind when preparing to impress your potential employer - monitor to monitor:

First Impressions Count


  • Dress to the same standard that you would to attend a face-to-face interview.
  • Test your tech; mic, speakers, and trial run the interview application if unfamiliar.
  • Consider your surroundings: check you are not pictured too dimly nor so brightly that light causes a glare. Try to minimise opportunities for background noise or interruptions.
  • If you are prone to distraction by seeing yourself, change your preferences so that you can focus on your interviewers.
  • Make sure you are prepared a few minutes in advance of the interview time slot, as you would arriving to a face-to-face meeting.
  • Be informed by your interviewer’s approach in terms of degrees of formality; always erring on the side of caution.
  • Introduce yourself clearly and try to instil confidence and engagement.
  • Maintain eye contact to camera rather than screen.


Research, Research, Research


Whether it’s a formal interview or an informal ‘chat’, researching the business in question cuts both ways. Researching a prospective firm isn’t solely about understanding who they are and demonstrating that you know this; it can also be of huge value to you to reaffirm your application.


Consider:

Does your research suggest that the company works to your values and aspirations? Do their current projects / publicity appeal to you; have you notice things that impel you to find out more? Do you have employees/ ex-employees or clients within your connections that you could reach out to?


Your application may not of course have been prompted by the vacancy of a particular organisation. Your desired role might simply be to work as a Building Control Surveyor, for instance, operating within your local area as far as possible, in return for competitive remuneration. Irrespective of the company involved. Carrying out research is still a prerequisite as it demonstrates your engagement with their organisation in particular. Even if you feel confident that you know how they operate, try to identify aspects that make their organisation stand out. They will appreciate the attention to detail as it conveys some initial investment from you in them.


Research Checklist:

Can you articulate a clear outline of their business model: the service(s) they offer and how this is achieved.

Are you aware of projects, methods of working or current clients’ key to the business? This demonstrates you have an up-to-date impression of the company and where it’s going.

Who are their competitors? This conveys genuine engagement and shouldn’t be underestimated.

Try to gauge it in terms of how the interviewers respond. If they show interest in your overview, provide more detail. If they seem satisfied and don’t prompt further, keep it short and sweet.


Conduct a close reading of the Job Description

Rather than avoiding aspects of the description that sound unfamiliar or outside of your prior experience, if you are unsure about any aspects of the role research these ahead of time.


Don’t be afraid of questioning your point of contact in relation to the application and ask for clarification on any aspects you are unsure about.


Rather than exposing a lack of knowledge it has been proven in my experience to demonstrate to the organisation your engagement and motivation to be suitably prepared.


I worked with a Senior Inspection Manager who was unsure about a specific inspection system referenced in the responsibilities of the role.


The Inspector impressed me by contacting me unprompted to run through the Job Description ahead of their interview, evidencing their capability to fulfil each duty, but pointed out the detail they were unsure about. They were fairly confident the inspection system was similar to their current role but the terminology made them uncertain. They asked me to contact the employer to check the two systems performed the same function and operated similarly. The employer was impressed with their active engagement in advance of the meeting and affirmed the candidate’s understanding. The inspector was then able to attend the interview with the confidence that the specified requirements were within their capability, enabling them to focus on how they can best present themselves and their relevant experience.


Pre-prepare examples - loosely

You want to be able to articulate your relevant experience clearly, but without sounding wooden. Consider how you can refine relevant projects/experiences into succinct summaries that give context, convey your input and show the end result.


Utilise the Star Technique to keep your examples clear and to the point:


Situation:            Describe the situation and when it took place
Task:                    Explain the task and what the goal was
Action:                 Provide details about the action you took to attain this
Result:                 Conclude with the result of your action


So for instance if a requirement of the role is to demonstrate ‘excellent relationship-building skills’, affirm it with an example:


S --- A qualified inspector I represented previously drew upon a past experience in which an established client was extremely dissatisfied that their plans had not been approved du to regulatory issues.


T --- Their responsibility was to sign off a compliant plan that suited the clients’ preferences.


A --- They initially acknowledged and reaffirmed the client’s aims and communicated their desire to reach a mutual outcome. They were able to problem solve some alternative routes to compliance.


R --- The result was greater client satisfaction than if the project had ran smoothly.

Interviewers will not only be looking for relevant experience but will also be analysing your perception of what’s relevant.


                            *            *            *


Following the advice above should stand you in good stead to tackle your interview.


Further advice can be found on our career blog.


To discuss how I can support you to secure your next role, please contact 01283 499820 or Hannah.Lakin@professional-technical.com.

Field Service Engineers: How to Make a Great First Impression On-Site

30 April 2025
For Engineers Working on Lifts, Forklifts & Automatic Doors - Ever turned up to a nightmare job? You’ve barely finished your brew and the phone’s already buzzing. You’re needed on-site—a shutter’s stuck halfway, or a lift’s playing dead again, or someone’s forklift won’t charge, and production is grinding to a halt. You roll in, toolbox in hand, only to find: No one’s expecting you. Access is “somewhere round the back.” The last guy left it “sorted” (it isn’t). Welcome to the glamorous world of field service engineering. Still, first impressions count. Whether you're fixing a faulty door sensor or resetting a lift control panel at 6AM, how you show up matters. Not just for the job—but for your next one. So here’s how to make a cracking first impression, even when the job itself is a bit of a horror show. 1. Turn Up Looking Like You Know What You’re Doing You don’t need a polished van with LED lighting and a custom wrap (though if you have one, fair play). But your gear should be tidy, your uniform clean-ish and you should look like you came to fix something. Why it matters: People judge on sight. A pro-looking engineer earns trust faster, and that trust makes problem-solving 10x easier. 2. Take Control (Politely) You’re not there for a chat—you’re there to sort the problem. But before you get stuck in, make sure you: Introduce yourself Confirm the job details Ask the right questions (especially about access, recent faults or dodgy workarounds) It puts the customer at ease and gives you a clear picture of what you’re walking into. “Morning, I’m here for the lift fault on level 2. Has it been down long? Any noises or error codes showing?” You sound sharp. You look sharp. You’re already halfway there. 3. Act Like It’s Not Your First Rodeo (Even If It’s a Mess) We know the jobs that go sideways before you even pop the panel: Power’s dodgy Doors are covered in grime Forklift diagnostics read like the Rosetta Stone But panicking or complaining helps no one. The best engineers are the ones who crack on, stay calm and solve problems step by step—even if the job was “looked at” last week by someone with a YouTube certificate. Remember: Calm = competence. Even if you're seething inside. 4. Document Everything – Cover Your Back, Protect Your Pay Take photos. Note down serials. Log faults. If it’s broken beyond what’s on the call-out, flag it. Not just for the customer—but for the office, so they can back you up if the client gets awkward or tries to rebook something that’s definitely not warranty work. Pro move: Save the before-and-after shots. It proves you did the work and shows the state of play. Gold dust for agencies, supervisors or anyone who thinks engineers just “poke stuff and hope.” 5. Leave the Place Better Than You Found It No mess. No tools left behind. No wires hanging out like a spaghetti monster. Once the job’s done: Explain what was wrong (in plain English) Tell them what you fixed Flag what might need attention next time Why bother? Because they remember the engineer who sorted it and explained it clearly. That’s how you get repeat work, better contracts and sites that actually welcome you back. Final Word: Respect Gets You Further Than Just Being “Good with Tools” Being a skilled engineer is half the battle. Being one who turns up right, handles themselves well and leaves a job neat? That’s how you stand out. These days, word travels. Clients tell each other who’s reliable. And when the good gigs come in—clean jobs, decent day rates, less chaos—guess who gets the call? You. Want More Work That Respects Your Skills? If you’re a solid engineer working on lifts, doors or materials handling kit—and you’re tired of chasing poor leads or sites that treat you like an afterthought—we’ve got your back. Get in touch with our team. We work with companies who appreciate what you do, pay fair and don’t send you to sites that look like crime scenes.

Skills Over Degrees: The Rise of Skills-Based Hiring in Design Engineering

28 March 2025
The world of design engineering is evolving fast. Traditionally, landing a role in this field meant you needed a degree, a portfolio and maybe some experience. But today? Employers are focusing more on the skills you bring to the table than where your degree came from. With the rise of emerging sectors like AI, green energy and tech-driven design, it’s clear: skills are now the top priority. So, what does this mean for you as a design engineer? Let’s dive into the shift towards skills-based hiring and what it means for your career. Why Are Employers Shifting Toward Skills Over Degrees? The landscape of design engineering is changing, with industries demanding faster innovation and greater flexibility. Whether you’re designing smart products, developing sustainable infrastructure or working on AI-driven designs, employers need people who can jump in and contribute from day one. Degrees? Great, but what they’re really after are those hands-on, technical skills that make you capable of producing real-world results. This shift is part of a broader trend in industries like AI and green tech, but it’s also making waves in design engineering. For job seekers, this is an exciting opportunity. No longer do you have to spend years in a classroom to prove your worth. Instead, it's all about building and showcasing your skills, whether it’s through projects, certifications, or the software tools you’ve mastered. The Rise of Skills-Based Hiring in Design Engineering In design engineering, employers are looking for specific, measurable skills. From proficiency in CAD software like AutoCAD and SolidWorks to expertise in simulation software or sustainable design principles, it's your practical experience that matters most. AI and Design : AI-driven design is becoming more prevalent, with machine learning algorithms helping engineers create optimised designs faster and more efficiently. If you have experience using AI tools in design, or can demonstrate how you’ve integrated these technologies into your workflow, you’re ahead of the game. Green Engineering : Sustainability is a huge focus in today’s design engineering landscape. Green design principles are being adopted across sectors, from renewable energy solutions to sustainable architecture. Skills in energy-efficient design, eco-friendly materials and green building certifications (like LEED) are becoming increasingly valuable. The bottom line? Employers want evidence that you can apply your skills to solve real-world problems. The more hands-on experience you have, the better your chances are—degree or not. What Does This Mean for Design Engineers? If you’re a design engineer (or aspiring to be one), here’s what you need to know to stay competitive in this new skills-first job market: Master Relevant Software : Whether it’s CAD tools, 3D modeling, or simulation software, proficiency in industry-standard tools is a must. Design engineers are expected to be fluent in these technologies, and the more tools you’re comfortable with, the better your chances of standing out. Gain Experience in Emerging Technologies : Familiarity with AI, automation or additive manufacturing (3D printing) can give you a massive edge. Employers in both traditional and emerging sectors are increasingly looking for engineers who can apply cutting-edge technologies to their designs. Build a Portfolio : A strong portfolio is your best friend. Show potential employers exactly what you’re capable of by showcasing completed projects, prototypes or design solutions. A portfolio is the best way to demonstrate your skills, and in many cases, it speaks louder than any degree could. Consider Certifications : Certifications in specific design software, sustainable design practices, or emerging technologies can help set you apart. Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning and Autodesk offer courses that give you tangible credentials to show employers you’re on top of your game. Real-World Examples: Companies Embracing Skills-Based Hiring Wondering if this skills-based shift is actually happening? The answer is yes, and some of the most innovative companies are leading the charge. Tesla : Known for its cutting-edge engineering, Tesla values practical skills over formal education. Whether it’s designing energy-efficient products or developing AI-driven systems, Tesla often looks for engineers with hands-on experience and a proven track record in applying skills to real-world problems. General Electric (GE) : As a major player in industries like renewable energy, GE has shifted to focus more on skills-based hiring. They value engineers who can design efficient systems, work with the latest technologies and think outside the box, regardless of their formal education background. Autodesk : The creators of the industry-leading CAD software have long been advocates for skills-based hiring. Autodesk encourages professionals to upskill through their online learning platform and offers certifications that help engineers prove their expertise. How Can You Leverage This Shift in the Job Market? Highlight Practical Skills : On your CV and in interviews, focus on the specific tools, technologies and methodologies you’ve mastered. Don’t just list degrees—highlight projects where you’ve applied your skills. Stay Current : In the ever-evolving world of design engineering, staying on top of the latest trends is crucial. Keep learning and adapting to new technologies, from AI to green energy systems. This shows employers you’re not just a “one-trick pony” but someone who can grow with the industry. Network and Build Your Reputation : Join design engineering communities, attend industry events and build your personal brand online. Networking with professionals in the field can open up opportunities, whether it’s for mentorship or collaborations on high-impact projects. Upskill Through Courses : If you feel there’s a gap in your skill set, don’t hesitate to take a certification course or attend workshops. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning or Udemy offer great ways to level up your skills and gain certificates that employers value. Overall The shift towards skills-based hiring is a game-changer for design engineers. With the rise of AI, green technologies and innovative design practices, employers care more about what you can do than where you went to school. If you focus on building your skills, staying current with industry trends and showcasing your experience through a strong portfolio, you’ll be well-positioned to take advantage of this new job market. Ready to take your career to the next level? Reach out and we will help you sharpen your skills, stay ahead of the curve and land your next design engineering role.
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How to Build a Winning Team Culture

28 February 2025
Developing a strong team culture is essential for a successful business. When a team works well together, it improves collaboration, encourages new ideas and boosts employee morale, leading to greater productivity and keeping employees longer. So, how do you create a culture that both inspires and unites your team? Here are the important steps to building a team culture that thrives. Define Your Core Values To create a strong team culture, begin with clear core values that represent your company's mission and guide everyone's decision-making. Engage your team in the process of creating and reinforcing these values. This will ensure they become the backbone of your company culture, providing solid guidelines for teamwork and maintaining focus on company goals. Lead by Example Leadership is essential in forming the culture at work. Leaders who demonstrate company values, communicate openly and maintain transparency serve as strong examples for their teams. When leaders are consistent in their actions and decisions, it helps to build trust and respect throughout the organisation. Encourage Open Communication A successful team depends on open communication, making it essential for everyone to express their thoughts. Employees should be encouraged to share ideas, voice concerns and provide feedback. To facilitate this, use different methods such as regular team meetings where everyone can discuss current matters. One-on-one check-ins are also useful, giving managers the chance to talk individually with each team member to understand their perspectives better. Additionally, establishing anonymous feedback channels allows employees to share their opinions freely without fear of negative consequences. These approaches help ensure that everyone feels heard, valued and part of the team. Foster Collaboration and Teamwork To enhance teamwork, offer employees chances to work together. Activities such as team-building events, projects involving multiple departments and brainstorming sessions can build stronger relationships and enhance work efficiency. When employees see themselves as vital parts of the team, they tend to contribute more effectively. Recognise and Reward Achievements Showing appreciation for employees can really lift their spirits and motivate them to work harder. It's important to acknowledge their efforts when they do a great job, whether through public praise, awards or bonuses. This recognition creates a positive work environment where employees feel valued and inspired to keep performing well. Such a supportive atmosphere fosters ongoing success and high morale, ensuring everyone knows their contributions are appreciated. Promote Work-Life Balance When employers prioritise their staff's well-being, it boosts job satisfaction and productivity. Providing options like flexible schedules, mental health support and career development opportunities helps employees maintain a healthy work-life balance. Employees who are content and well-rested tend to have better focus and accomplish more in their roles. Invest in Professional Development A thriving workplace depends on ongoing learning and growth opportunities. It's important to offer employees training, mentorship programs and resources for career advancement. When you invest in developing your team, you're not only improving their skills but also boosting their loyalty and encouraging them to stay with the company longer. Create a Sense of Purpose When workers understand their job has real meaning, they become more engaged and dedicated. It's important to align team goals with the company's main objectives. Show employees how their work affects both the company and the world. Knowing their efforts matter keeps them motivated and working hard. Cultivate Diversity and Inclusion A team made up of people with different backgrounds leads to more creativity and fresh ideas. It's important to hire diverse individuals and provide equal chances for everyone to advance. A workplace where everyone feels valued and respected boosts teamwork and results in better business performance. By focusing on diversity and inclusion, teams become stronger and more successful. Continuously Improve As your team and business grow, culture evolves too. Regularly evaluate your workplace culture through surveys, feedback and observations. Be open to changes and improvements that align with your team’s needs and business objectives. Final Thoughts Creating a successful team culture involves dedication and effective leadership. It's essential to focus on core values, encourage teamwork, celebrate achievements and prioritise the well-being of employees. By doing this, you establish a workplace where individuals can thrive. A positive team culture not only increases productivity but also improves employee satisfaction and contributes to the overall success of the company.