Poor Interviews--What NOT to do

• Rush into the interview without a plan.
• Pay no attention to the job description.
• Conduct the interview in any old place.
• Ask whatever question comes to mind.
• Dominate the conversation yourself.
• Do other things while the candidate is talking.
• Don't bother to take notes.
• Don't give the candidate any opportunity to ask questions.
• Interrupt the candidate often and don't allow him/her time to think about an answer.
• Give the candidate the fast shuffle at the end of the interview.

Good Interviews--What TO do

• Set objectives. Know what you want.
• Review the job description.
• Create the positive interview atmosphere.
• Use a mixture of types of questions (see Additional Resources).
• Let the candidate do most of the talking.
• Listen empathetically. Take notes.
• Allow questions. In fact, encourage them.
• Allow silence.
• Treat each candidate as an individual.
• If you like the candidate, hire him/her!
• Don't let your feelings interfere with judgment.
• Provide information and closure.

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So, what did you learn? ...

This site was created and is maintained by Amy J Nelson, Phd.
2006 All rights reserved.