A wealth of online information is available to help interviewees put their foot forward in a job interview, but the interviewer or hiring manager must be equally “interview-ready.” This preparation exceeds professional dress, manners, and language. It surpasses timeliness and proper training. If your responsibilities include aligning candidates with open positions at your company, here are some essential tips:
1. Understand the job requirements for the open position
As basic as it sounds, you should review the job description well before the interview and again right before the interview begins. While you may be familiar with various company roles, details sometimes become hazy. This problem occurs most frequently when you’re interviewing applicants for multiple positions at once. Instead of fumbling for details you should know, why not impress the candidate by knowing exactly what you’re looking for in a prospective worker?
2. Prepare your questions in advance
When you’re well-versed in the position’s details, writing interview questions should be uncomplicated. Since you’ve verified the applicant’s work history and related experience in advance, you’ll know they’re a potential fit before they walk in the door. Your questions will then focus on the candidate’s personality, work or leadership style, and typical stress reactions. You might also explore their collaborative abilities and hobbies to determine how they’ll fit in among current employees.
3. Practice your delivery
Although you won’t be giving a speech, practicing what you will say could help you avoid embarrassing moments during the interview. “Practicing” may be as simple as reading your questions aloud to yourself or a colleague. Reviewing your questions will determine if you’ve framed them appropriately and whether they will be clear to the hearer.
4. Listen well
In both personal and professional settings, communication is critical. Good communication requires a firm basis of understanding. You know basic facts about the candidates before they come to your workspace. However, you will know their views, values, or personality once you ask pertinent questions and actively listen to their responses. Wherever needed, ask for clarification. Remember that you shouldn’t be the only one to ask questions. Create space for interviewee questions, as well, so they can determine if an open position best fits their expertise, experience, and expectations.
5. Use open body language
While you may be comfortable in your role, remember that interviews are stressful for your candidates! Relieve their inner angst with professional warmth, a firm handshake, and possibly a bit of small talk before you move on to the interview. Try to maintain a pleasant resting face and a relaxed, open posture. Sitting rigidly, steepling your fingers, or crossing your arms may unintentionally convey disapproval or hostility. A negative emotional climate (whether intentional or not) may alienate an excellent prospect before you conclude the interview phase!
6. Make informed hiring recommendations or decisions
Depending on your professional role, you may assess and recommend candidates or complete the hiring process yourself. Whatever your workplace function, business leadership depends on you to choose qualified candidates who will also be a good fit for the company. To that end, take good notes during interviews to recall relevant observations when making your final choice.
An interviewer’s job extends well beyond being present and accounted for during the interview. They must know what they want in a prospective worker and hone their questions, manner, and listening skills to make their best decision. By being interview-ready, they can make better choices and project the best possible image of themselves and the company they represent.
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