Interviews: How Managers Can Prepare
Help your hiring team prepare to conduct a strong interview now and help your business avoid costly hiring mistakes in the long run.
Managers should be prepared to ask the right questions and make a positive impression on the candidate during interviews.
Here are 5 ways managers can prepare to conduct strong interviews in this crucial step of the interview process:
Review the Job Description and Posting
One of the first steps to conducting a strong interview is being thoroughly familiar with the basic information. Candidates will ask questions about the job description, job posting, company information, and employee benefits and perks package. Create a job description that outlines the company mission statement, role responsibilities, and desired soft and technical skills. This will attract the right candidate for the role. And provide up-to-date information to help ensure a smooth transition to the next step of the interview process.
Analyze Candidate Work History
Hiring managers who prepare for an interview can maximize the time spent in the interview and demonstrate enthusiasm for the company and position. Additionally, no one likes repeating information they’ve already stated. Prior to the interview, hiring managers should be familiar with the candidate’s work history. They should review the candidate’s resume, cover letter, and any applicable online profiles. Make note of any information that needs clarification and use this information to evaluate potential success in the role.
Outline the Process
As initial interviews are scheduled, hiring managers should be prepared to follow up with candidates and move quickly to the next step. For each interview, prepare an agenda that covers key questions and information in order to maximize time. Using time efficiently will also demonstrate to a candidate that your hiring team respects their time. As secondary interviews are scheduled, be flexible in the timeline and consider using an online scheduling system like Calendly in order to simplify the process and provide multiple interview options.
Prepare
Prior to the interview, your hiring team should be familiar with the job description, role responsibilities, and other requirements. In order to have a strong and effective interview, they should prepare core questions that will provide insight into key job performance criteria. If your company is continuing with remote interviews, be sure your hiring team is familiar with some tips for virtual interviews in order to ensure each and every candidate has a positive experience.
Note and Follow Up
Managers should record thorough notes on the candidate throughout the entire process. This will help to track information and create an accurate summary of the candidate. After each interview, hiring managers should take note of any important information captured during the interview. And be sure to follow up with each candidate promptly. Being respectful of candidates’ time and following up with them creates a strong working relationship and an effective hiring process.
Don’t have time to read resumes and prepare interview questions? Get help with hiring by connecting with a Balance Staffing Recruiter today.
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