When it comes to performing interviews, many companies will give the responsibility to line managers who might be recruiting directly into their team. By doing this, it gives that person the chance to award the job to someone they think is suitable for the role. However, do they know how to conduct an incredible interview?
Here are 10 ways for them to do it, from a business perspective.
- Introduce yourself and be welcoming
One of the first things an interviewer should do is introduce themselves to the candidate. Make them aware of who they are and what position they hold in the company. This can also break the ice initially.
- Create a comfortable environment
Make sure the room that you are conducting the interview in is a comfortable and welcoming environment. A bright and airy room, not too hot or too cold, with chairs, a table, and enough space. Again, if the interview is remote – ensure it is a clear background without any distractions.
- Set the tone for the interview
Before you start asking questions, it is a good idea to set the tone for the interview. This is a great way to manage expectations. Make the candidate aware of what is to come and highlight when they may have an opportunity to ask questions themselves. This keeps some order to the interview.
- Ask closed and open-ended questions
It is important that you get as much information from the interview. You only have a small amount of time to do it. Asking closed questions will give you direct responses, but open-ended ones will allow a candidate to expand on their answer and could give you greater insight.
- Make sure you listen to answers
Try and avoid interrupting when a candidate is answering a question. Instead, listen, and take notes if possible. This will help them to feel comfortable but should give you an opportunity to get all of the information you need.
- Review the curriculum vitae or application
During the interview, refer back to the candidate’s application or the CV they sent to you. Through this, you can ask questions about past employment and also relevant experience to the new role.
- Be consistent with your questioning
It is important to remain consistent with the majority of questions you ask. You are likely interviewing more than one person and this will give you the chance to compare notes and answers so that you can make the best decision.
- Give the candidate a chance to ask you questions and be prepared for that
You will also want to give the candidate the chance to ask you questions. This will give you a great insight into their priorities and also what their understanding of the role is. You can tell a lot from a person when it comes to what questions they might ask you.
- Avoid making a judgment based on appearance
We all make a judgment based on first impressions, but try and avoid cementing a decision based on that judgment. We all know we shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, and while a first impression based on appearance might not have blown you away what they say and how they act might.
Set a timeline and manage expectations
Finally, during the interview set a timeline not just for the interview but for hearing the decision and for feedback. This helps to manage expectations.
Using these tips will help you to conduct an incredible and consistent interview each and every time.
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