Sunday, July 27, 2008

How to Conduct a Job Interview.

By Ray James

Conducting a job interview is one of the most important tasks managers or supervisors can perform. As a result of their ability to judge the best candidate for the job, they are in the position to ensure a successful future for the company.

Giving a job interview is not an easy task for first time interviewers. The main quality needed to conduct a good interview is self confidence. You must be seen to be approachable yet in authority. The interviewer's attitude and the first impression they give the candidate will affect the candidate's performance. It is natural for employers as well as the candidate to be nervous during a job interview. Ensure that you stay on the topic and create a welcoming atmosphere. A warm greeting and firm handshake will do much to create this atmosphere.

When you are ready to start an interview, meet the candidate and greet him/her warmly. Thank the applicant for taking the time to attend the interview. Appropriate eye contact is very important as it will make your task more pleasant. Ask the candidate to have a seat. This will reduce any tension and will allow you to begin the interview positively. Being sure to ask the right kind of questions at the appropriate time plays a very important role while conducting a job interview. Ask the questions as they increase in order of importance. Begin with more general questions such as asking for personal details, why the candidate has chosen your company etc. Always wait patiently and listen attentively to the answers from the candidate. You will be able to think of the next question whilst the previous one is being answered, unless you have a list of prepared questions. Take your own time and plan your questions well.

After the initial general questions take a short break and have an informal chat with the candidate before starting with the next series of questions. This will create a more relaxed atmosphere and will assist the candidate in answering the questions as best they can. This next level of questions includes those which tell you how much skill and talent a person has and whether they are right for the job. From these questions you will be able to highlight the applicant?s talent and expertise. Be sure to note down every point you observe, as it will benefit you when you are making the final decision. Some of the important questions asked in this section are those that are asking the candidate what they are looking for in a job, why they should be considered for the position, what can you offer over another candidate etc.

Deciding whether a candidate is best suited for a particular job or choosing among equally qualified candidates, is a difficult task. You must be able to judge and ask appropriate questions so that will give you the necessary information to help you with the decision making. You may choose to ask questions related to the candidate's previous experiences, behavior and relationships with co-workers, management style, what they are looking for in a job, and their suitability as a team member.

Finish the interview with friendly gestures, thanking the candidate again and shaking hands. Allow yourself a few minutes before beginning another interview. A poorly managed interview will not be a success and if you make a wrong decision it could be potentially disastrous for the company.

About the Author:

No comments:

Blog Archive