There’s a lot of advice about being interviewed out there, but what if you’re the one interviewing someone and you don’t feel entirely confident about it? Interviewing candidates can be daunting, especially if it’s something you’re new to. This article gives you some tips and tricks for conducting interviews confidently so you can ensure that you’re picking the best person for the job.
Before the Interview
Let’s start off by manifesting success. Take a few minutes to imagine yourself conducting a smooth interview. See yourself asking insightful questions, putting the candidate at ease, and feeling in control of the conversation.
Positive affirmations to yourself, like “I am a capable interviewer” or “I have the skills to assess this candidate effectively”, are indeed cheesy but will help to align your headspace.
Preparation is Power
Preparation is key! Before any interview, review the candidate’s resume and cover letter. This will help you understand their background, skills, and experiences, allowing you to ask insightful questions.
Speaking of questions, develop a list that targets the role’s specific requirements and assesses the candidate’s fit for the company culture. Don’t be afraid to ask random or seemingly unrelated questions. You can also go off-script and ask follow-up questions to gain a deeper insight into the candidate.
Going in with an interview structure also alleviates the stress of tangents taking up precious time. Have a clear agenda for the interview, outlining the topics you’ll cover and the time allocated to each section. This keeps things organised and prevents the interview from meandering.
Be Approachable
As the interviewer, you set the tone. Start by introducing yourself and your role, the role you’re interviewing them for, and the interview agenda. A warm and welcoming start will put the candidate at ease.
We all project confidence through nonverbal cues. It should go without saying, but maintain good posture, make eye contact, and offer a firm handshake. Have you heard of power poses? Standing tall with open shoulders and good posture before entering the interview room can trick your brain into feeling more confident.
Uplift Them
While you have a set of questions, allow the interview to flow naturally. Encourage the candidate to elaborate on their experiences and showcase their strengths. Rank your questions in order of importance if you have a time limit so you know which asks to cull on the fly.
Further easing the candidate’s anxiety reinforces the person positively. They’ve taken the time to sit down with you, after all. Yes, they want a job out of you, but there is mutual respect at play. Acknowledge the candidate’s skills and experiences. Let them know you’re hearing them and interested in what they bring to the table.
You’re the Expert
Any questions? Be prepared to answer questions about the company, the team, and the role at any point in the interview. The candidate should walk away with a clear understanding of the opportunity. As the saying goes, they’re, in a way, also interviewing you.
Setting clear expectations for what happens next signals that you and the company are professional and worthwhile for the candidate once more. Outline the next steps in the interview process and be transparent about the timeline for a hiring decision.
Finally, remember to take some time to reflect on what went well and what didn’t once the candidate has left. How do you feel? Do your head and your heart say they’re a good fit? Debrief with yourself, and you’ll grow and learn as an interviewer. Even a well-phrased question or positive rapport with the candidate is a win.
Remember, even experienced interviewers feel nervous. By being well-prepared, focusing on the candidate, and projecting confidence through your demeanour and questions, you’ll conduct successful interviews that leave a positive impression.
SPONSORED
