How to interview employees
Interviewing requires time and preparation and is an opportunity
for you to assess the abilities of potential employees. Formulating
a plan for before, during and after the interview will help you
gain as much from them as possible. Follow this three-step guide on
interviewing techniques.
- Interview preparation
- Interview techniques
- Follow-up
Interview preparation
Define your objectives before you start. Ensure you know the
position's requirements inside out and think about what success
factors will be necessary to complete the job. Establish
performance expectations. It's also a good idea to involve other
members of your team in this process, to ensure you are painting an
accurate and unbiased picture of the ideal candidate.
- Evaluate what skills you are looking for before the
interview
- Involve other members of your team to get an accurate picture
of the ideal candidate
Interview techniques
Plan questions in advance but don't stick to these rigidly - be
responsive to what the candidate tell you. Look at the candidate's
CV for areas to highlight and ensure questions are open-ended -
these give candidates a chance to talk. Listening is important too
- if you are doing most of the talking, you won't be able to gain
enough information. Taking notes is essential.
- Draw up a list of questions but don't stick to these too
rigidly - be guided by what the candidate tells you
- Avoid the tendency to talk too much during an interview -
listening will enable you to get a better feel for the
candidate
Follow-up
If a candidate is impressive, be clear about what the next steps
will be. If you don't think they are suitable, end the interview on
a positive note but be genuine about your intentions. Take time
after the interview to assess any notes you have taken and to make
additional ones, as the interview will still be fresh in your
mind.
- Be clear about any follow-up policies, such as additional
interviews or tests and ensure the candidate is made aware of
this
- If you don't feel a candidate is suitable, end the interview
promptly and on a positive note
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