As one of the fundamental processes in recruitment, interviews are the chance to meet a candidate face to face and form an impression of their suitability for the job. A clear structure of carefully prepared and varied questions will provide opportunities for the candidate to express themselves. In addition to the opinions you will form of your candidates, remember that as the company representative, you must reflect the attributes expected of the candidate by conducting the interview in a polite and efficient manner.

Following the simple advice below will lead to a correct and successful appointment.

Prepare
Prepare for the interview(s) by re-examining the job specification and note down any relevant attributes or duties required, the promotion prospects, and the skills and experience required to be successful in such a role. This will determine the questions you will ask and answer any questions they may have about the role

Focus on the CV
Examine the candidates CV extensively. Highlight the areas you wish to probe, such as previous companies they have worked for. Use the information on the CV to find out whether they will be suitable for the job you are offering. How many staff did they manage previously? Could they manage more? What are the candidate’s strengths and weaknesses?

Set the Scene
Create a comfortable environment for the interview in an area away from distractions and disturbances. Do not take any phone calls or messages as this directs attention away from the candidate and looks unprofessional. Put the candidate at ease.

Keep on Track
Keep to your agenda and don’t over run too much as this may be obvious to other candidates.

Vary the Questions
Ask a variety of open questions to gather information, (who? what? where?), probing questions to check information about their CV, (In your last job….) closed questions to allow them to show you what facts they know about your company (How many departments do we have?) and hypothetical questions to see how they would react in certain situations, (How would you feel if…).

Take Notes
Take notes during and after the interview to aid your memory. This is especially important if there are a large number of candidates. Be courteous and always ask permission from the candidate as you don’t want to distract them by suddenly scribbling whilst they are answering a question.

Your First Impression
It is not only the applicant that forms a lasting impression during the interview. This is a critical chance for you to impress the candidate on behalf of the company and sell the job opportunity even more. Be polite, punctual and well presented. Also make sure the interview space is bright, tidy and comfortable. It is no good finding the perfect candidate who then doesn’t want the job because he has been put off in the interview stage!

Candidate Opportunities
Always allow the potential employee to ask any questions at the end of the interview. Be clear and honest about what they should expect to happen next. If there are second interviews or tests then let them know. Thank them for their efforts and wish them luck for the future, regardless of your opinion of them.

Relax
Enjoy the interview experience. Not only will this give the candidate extra confidence, but your attitude will convince them that they will be content working for you.

Remember, having been assigned to conduct the interview, the company value your expertise and trust your opinion, if assigned to work alongside the successful applicant, ensure that your personal opinions and requirements are fulfilled also.

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