The most important part of the interview is the opening. The preamble determines how the interview will take place. With good preparation and tips to put the candidate at ease, you can have a successful interview that can help you select the best candidate.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Getting Ready
Step 1. Determine what you need from a candidate
Before starting the interview, you should determine what kind of candidate is needed. Maybe you already have a list of qualifications. However, consider other needs. Maybe the company needs people who are sociable, or you need people who are detail-oriented. A clear vision will help focus the interview.
Step 2. Write down the questions to be asked
Once you've determined what's needed, you can use those criteria as a guide. At least two questions are required for each requirement although you may need seven or eight for the essential requirements.
- It's a good idea to prepare one or two questions for each skill-related requirement (positive questions). Then, prepare at least one question related to how the candidate coped with problems in that area (negative question).
- Try different types of questions. Sometimes, you just want to ask for facts, such as "How many years of experience do you have in this field?". However, you can also ask hypothetical questions that give the candidate an opportunity to describe how he or she would react in a given situation, such as "How would you react if a customer complained to you and yelled at you?". Or, use confrontational questions that put the candidate in a position, such as "Why are you right for this job? You don't even have a college degree." The purpose of this question is to measure the candidate's reaction to stress. Finally, you can also ask for examples of actions the candidate has taken, such as "Tell me about when you were chosen to lead a project. Was the project successful?"
- Prepare extra questions. Sometimes, thoughts just evaporate in an interview. So, it's best to prepare other questions that the candidate can answer.
Step 3. Do your part before the interview
Read all incoming job resumes. Study and see the strengths and weaknesses of each candidate. In addition, take the time to look up the candidate's presence on the internet.
That way, at least you get to know the candidate a bit before he comes. You can ask better questions, and the interview will go smoothly because you're both calm
Step 4. Wear appropriate clothing
You represent the company so you have to look good. Basically, candidates will judge the company based on how you present yourself. Wear professional attire that fits the company culture.
Part 2 of 3: Making the Candidate Calm
Step 1. Treat the candidate politely, kindly, and sincerely
Being open and polite shows that you value them. Smile, and make him comfortable. Also, a warm welcome that implies that you want to get to know him better will lead to more relevant information.
For example, start by saying that you're happy to meet him, with a smile and a handshake
Step 2. Find common ground
Luckily, this step is easier because you've already done your research. For example, find a hobby or favorite thing. If you both love the beach, talk about it in a relaxed tone.
- You don't have to say that you already know about him. Instead, say something that goes something like, "It's sunny. I think I'm going to the beach this weekend."
- Don't be afraid to make small talk. Ask about the day or make jokes about the hot weather.
Step 3. State your reason for calling him for an interview
From the start, show that you are interested in him as a candidate. Start by talking about why you want to interview him.
- For example, "I was attracted to the fact that you attended a workshop on grant writing, and that was one of the reasons I interviewed you."
- As a bonus, you can use this opportunity to give compliments.
Step 4. Introduce the company
Provide basic information about the job, such as the employee's duties and hours. Offer a salary range if this information is allowed at the interview. In addition, tell the background of the company. You don't need to go into detail, but take a few minutes to provide basic information.
Part 3 of 3: Starting Questions
Step 1. Start with easy questions
Try asking, "Where did you study?" Basically, keep the candidate calm to lighten the mood and relieve tension.
You can also ask small questions about the candidate's journey to the interview, such as "Having trouble finding our office?" or "Have you been to this building before?"
Step 2. Ask yourself about the candidate
This question is one of the principal ones. Questions about self are open. That is, giving candidates the opportunity to highlight their key skills and background. In addition, you also have the opportunity to assess briefly what the candidate can provide an explanation.
You can structure this question in a number of ways, even as a statement. For example, "Tell me about yourself", "Why did you apply for this job?", or "What made you a good fit for this position?"
Step 3. Listen carefully
The candidate can tell if you're not really listening, and if he notices you're not paying attention to his answer, he'll get even more nervous or stammer. Also, if you don't cut the words, you're giving him a chance to think through your answers and provide additional details.
- For example, if he says he has a background in art, ask how that might help in this position.
- Also, make sure you look at him when he talks. You can jot down the answers every now and then, but try not to write them down all the time.
Step 4. Design your question based on the answer
Don't be afraid to change tactics a bit based on the answers the candidate gives. For example, you may need to ask for clarification, twist the question, or ask for more information.
- For example, he has said he has experience in your field and outlined its relevance. This means that you can delete follow-up questions on the topic.
- If he says he pays attention to detail and you plan to ask him if his skills match the job, turn the question around by saying, “You said you were detail-oriented. How do you think that would help in this position?"
