How to Conduct a Successful Interview: Tips and Tricks!

Prepare Thoroughly

• Know the Role Inside Out: Before you even step into the interview room, make sure you have a solid understanding of the role’s responsibilities, required skills, and how it fits within the team. According to research by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), well-prepared interviewers are more likely to identify the right candidates.

• Review the Candidate’s Resume: This seems basic, but it’s essential. A thorough review of the resume beforehand allows you to tailor your questions to the candidate’s experience and clarify any uncertainties during the interview.

Create a Comfortable Environment

• Set the Tone: A little warmth goes a long way. Start with a few minutes of light conversation to put the candidate at ease. This not only helps to reduce nervousness but also allows you to see a more authentic version of the candidate.

• Be Present: Avoid distractions like checking your phone or emails during the interview. Research from Harvard Business Review suggests that candidates can easily pick up on your engagement levels, and being fully present signals respect and interest.

Ask the Right Questions

• Behavioural Questions Are Key: “Tell me about a time when…” These questions are effective because they require candidates to provide real examples of how they’ve handled situations in the past. According to a study by LinkedIn, 63% of HR professionals say that behavioral interviews are the best way to assess a candidate’s soft skills.

• Avoid Leading Questions: Questions that suggest a “right” answer can lead to biased responses. Instead, keep your questions open-ended to encourage honest and varied responses.

Listen More, Talk Less

• Let the Candidate Speak: Interviews should be more about listening than talking. Research by Leadership IQ found that hiring managers who talk less during interviews make better hiring decisions. Aim for a 70/30 split, where the candidate is speaking 70% of the time.

• Active Listening: Show that you’re engaged by nodding, maintaining eye contact, and asking follow-up questions based on the candidate’s responses.

Assess for Cultural Fit

• Align with Company Values: Cultural fit is just as important as technical skills. Ask questions that reveal the candidate’s values and work style to ensure they align with your company culture. Gallup research indicates that employees who fit well with their company culture are more likely to stay longer and perform better.

• Team Dynamics: Consider how the candidate will interact with the current team. Involve team members in the interview process or ask about the candidate’s preferred working style to gauge compatibility.

Close with Clarity

• Set Expectations: At the end of the interview, clarify the next steps. Let the candidate know when they can expect to hear back from you and what the next stages of the hiring process involve. According to Glassdoor, candidates appreciate transparency, which enhances your company’s reputation.

Enjoy the Process

Interviews don’t have to be stiff and formal. They’re an opportunity to learn about someone new, and maybe even have a little fun along the way. Remember, you’re not just evaluating the candidate—they’re evaluating you too!