EMPLOYER’S GUIDE: INTERVIEW SMARTER

Interviewing candidates can feel daunting, it’s another thing to add to your leadership to do list. Taking a thoughtful approach to find the right person creates a positive experience for you and the candidate.  

Respect Their Time  
Respect candidates’ time by sticking to the agreed interview schedule. Avoid rescheduling, as last-minute changes can create stress and leave a poor impression.  

Do Your Homework  
Before the interview, read the candidate’s resume and highlight three standout points. Use them to personalise questions and guide conversation. 

Create a Comfortable Environment  
Set a comfortable tone from the start. Offer a drink or begin with light conversation. Introduce yourself and the company. Explain the interview structure. Ask open-ended questions to learn about their experience, thinking, and motivations.  

Assess Cultural Fit  
Focus on skills, qualifications, and cultural fit. Decide if the candidate’s values and work habits align with your team. Observe their reactions and listen to their answers to situational questions for insights.  

Take Structured Notes  
Rate candidates on job fit and culture to compare objectively – rating them out of 10 against the PD can be helpful. Structured notes help you remember skills, experience, culture fit, and red flags for fair, consistent evaluation.  

Always communicate the next steps clearly to all candidates, with realistic time frames. This helps keep everything moving and everyone informed of expectations.  

Conclusion  
Interviewing is about more than boxes; it’s about connecting, assessing potential, and fairness. Respect their time, prepare, set a comfortable tone, listen actively, take structured notes, and explain next steps. This approach hires better and strengthens your brand.