Given the choice, most people would prefer being
on the interviewer side of the desk rather than the side occupied
by the interviewee. However, in many ways, the interviewer has the
greater responsibility in the situation. It is up to him or her
to make sure that each qualified applicant is given a chance to
shine, to show how he or she may make a contribution to the organization.
The interviewer must take appropriate steps to
set the stage for a successful interviewing experience. Randi Toler
Sachs, the author of How to Become a Skillful Interviewer, defines
an effective job interview (from the interviewer's point of view)
as "one in which you have successfully explored a job applicant's
suitability for the position available."
Here are some tips on how to become a more skillful
interviewer:
The Six Basic Elements of an Effective Interview:
- An agenda
- Information critical to a hiring decision
- Opportunities for the applicant to demonstrate
knowledge, technical ability, and problem-solving skills
- Enough flexibility to change direction if necessary
- All questions are asked in a non-discriminatory
manner
- Applicant is given a truthful understanding
of what the job entails
Pre-Interview Checklist:
- My office is neat and presentable.
- I have read and taken notes about the resume
and job pplication and have them on the desk.
- I have arranged not to be disturbed for the
time allotted for the interview.
- I have arranged the furniture in a manner suitable
for our discussion.
- I have a copy of the job description of the
position available.
- I have available samples of the company's (or
department's) work to show the applicant.
- I have prepared questions that are designed
to elicit the specific information I need in order to make a fair
evaluation.
Create a Profile for the Position:
- I know the responsibilities of the job.
- I have identified the persons with whom the
new employee will work.
- I have decided on the educational and experience
requirement for the job.
- I have determined whether the job requires
an individual with a specific type of temperament.
- I have clarified the salary range I may offer.
To Elicit Answers to Tough Questions -- Remember
the "Three R's":
- Repeat the Question. When an
applicant tries to avoid answering your question, try repeating.
Sometimes he is so intent on imparting a specific item of information
that he doesn't stop to listen to exactly what you are asking.
- Rephrase. If repeating doesn't get a
response, rephrase the question so that it is not as threatening
to the applicant. Adding some qualifiers such as "I know
it's a difficult question," or "I can appreciate why
you might hesitate to answer, but…" can soften the impact.
- Require. Finally, you may need to require
the applicant to answer the question.
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