Conducting an Interview.
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 these general questions, take a minute or two for a break and chat with the candidate. This will assist both interviewer and candidate and will add to the harmonious atmosphere. The next level of questions will give you information about the skill level of the candidate and how it will be applied in the particular job. The questions you ask must highlight the candidate?s talent and expertise. You must be sure to note down every point you observe, so that you can use them to make the final decision. Some examples of the important questions in this level are, “What do you look in for a job?”, “Why should we choose you?”, “What can you perform for the company that some one else is not able to?” etc.
It is extremely difficult to choose between candidates for a position, especially when there are a number of equally qualified people. You must be prepared to judge and ask the appropriate questions to ensure that you obtain the right person for the job. It is quite appropriate to ask questions related to previous work experiences, how they have related to colleagues, management style, what the candidate is looking to achieve in a job, to ascertain whether the candidate is a team player.
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.
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