How We Hire
Our approach to finding the right people for our team
Our hiring philosophy
At Istanbul Workshops, we believe that finding the right people is about more than just skills and experience. We look for individuals who share our passion for Turkish culture, our commitment to authenticity, and our dedication to creating exceptional experiences for our visitors.
Our hiring process is designed to be thorough but respectful of your time. We want to get to know you as a person, understand your motivations, and see how you might contribute to our team and mission.
Our hiring process
Here's what you can expect when you apply to join our team
Application Review
After you submit your application, our team will carefully review your resume, cover letter, and any portfolio materials you've shared. We look for relevant experience, but also for signs of your passion, creativity, and alignment with our values.
Timeline: 1-2 weeks
Initial Conversation
If your application stands out, we'll invite you for an initial phone or video conversation. This is a chance for us to learn more about your background and interests, and for you to ask questions about the role and our company.
Timeline: 30-45 minutes
Skills Assessment
Depending on the role, we may ask you to complete a practical assessment that demonstrates your relevant skills. For workshop instructors, this might involve a demonstration of your craft. For other roles, it could be a written assignment or practical task related to the position.
Timeline: Varies by position
Team Interview
Next, you'll meet with several team members for a more in-depth conversation. We'll discuss your experience, approach to work, and how you might contribute to our team. This is also your opportunity to get a better sense of our culture and the people you'd be working with.
Timeline: 1-2 hours
Final Interview
For the final stage, you'll meet with a senior leader or the founder of Istanbul Workshops. This conversation focuses on ensuring mutual alignment in terms of values, vision, and expectations. We want to make sure that joining our team would be the right move for both you and us.
Timeline: 45-60 minutes
Offer & Onboarding
If we decide to move forward, we'll extend an offer and work with you to arrange a start date. Once you join, you'll go through our comprehensive onboarding program to help you integrate into the team and get up to speed with our workshops, processes, and culture.
Timeline: 1-2 weeks for offer, 1-2 months for onboarding
What we look for in candidates
Passion for Culture
We value candidates who demonstrate a genuine interest in Turkish culture, crafts, and traditions, and who are excited about sharing these with others.
Collaborative Spirit
We look for team players who can work effectively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and who contribute positively to our collaborative environment.
Commitment to Excellence
We seek individuals who take pride in their work, pay attention to detail, and are committed to delivering exceptional experiences for our visitors.
Positive Attitude
We value candidates who bring enthusiasm, warmth, and a positive outlook to their work, creating a welcoming environment for both visitors and colleagues.
Growth Mindset
We look for people who are eager to learn, open to feedback, and committed to continuous improvement in their craft and professional development.
Cultural Fit
We seek candidates who align with our values of authenticity, cultural preservation, community connection, and excellence in experience.
Tips for applicants
Be Authentic
We value genuine connections. Be yourself in your application and interviews, and share your true passion for the role and our mission.
Do Your Research
Take time to learn about Istanbul Workshops, our offerings, and our approach. This will help you understand if we're a good fit for you and demonstrate your interest to us.
Showcase Your Passion
Whether it's for Turkish culture, crafts, hospitality, or your specific area of expertise, let your enthusiasm shine through in your application and interviews.
Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way conversation. Prepare questions that show you've thought deeply about the role and our company.
Highlight Relevant Experience
Connect your past experiences to the requirements of the role, even if they're from different industries or contexts.
Follow Up
After interviews, send a thank-you note expressing your continued interest and reflecting on the conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the hiring process typically take?
From application to offer, the process usually takes 3-4 weeks, though this can vary depending on the role and the number of applications we receive.
Do I need to speak Turkish to work at Istanbul Workshops?
While Turkish language skills are beneficial, they're not required for all positions. English is our primary language for communication with international visitors. However, for certain roles, particularly those involving direct interaction with local suppliers or Turkish-speaking visitors, Turkish language skills may be necessary.
What if I don't have experience in the tourism or cultural sector?
We value diverse backgrounds and experiences. If you're passionate about our mission and can demonstrate transferable skills, we encourage you to apply. We've hired team members from various industries who have brought valuable perspectives to our work.
Can I apply for multiple positions?
Yes, you can apply for multiple positions if you believe you're qualified for them. However, we recommend focusing on roles that best match your skills and interests.
Do you offer internships or part-time positions?
Yes, we occasionally offer internships and part-time positions, particularly during our busy seasons. These opportunities are listed on our careers page when available.
What should I wear to my interview?
We have a casual but professional dress code. For interviews, we recommend business casual attire that makes you feel comfortable and confident.
Ready to apply?
Explore our open positions and take the first step toward joining our team
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