Did you know that April is National Stress Awareness Month? We’re back with our best tips and tricks to reduce those stress levels. Today we’re talking about interview techniques.
Whether you’re a seasoned HR professional, a hiring manager, or a businessperson wearing multiple hats, interviewing in 2024 can be tricky.
The traditional interview process has really transformed in recent years, influenced by the digital world, remote working trends, and diversity and inclusion.
Here are our tips for navigating these changes.
Prepare thoroughly
Prior to the interview, take the time to review the candidate’s CV, and any other relevant materials. Familiarise yourself with the job requirements and prepare a list of tailored questions to assess the candidate’s suitability against them.
Stay flexible
Flexibility is key when interviewing. Be prepared to adapt your interview approach based on the candidate’s responses and insights gained during the conversation. Keep an open mind and be willing to explore alternative perspectives.
Focus on engagement
Virtual interviews can feel impersonal, but there are ways to increase engagement and connection. Maintain eye contact, use active listening techniques, and ask follow-up questions to demonstrate your interest in the candidate.
Embrace diversity
Candidates in today’s job market really value diversity and inclusion – making it a crucial element of the interview process. Avoid making assumptions based on stereotypes or biases, and aim to create an inclusive environment where all candidates feel valued and respected.
Practice self-care
Interviewing can be mentally and emotionally draining, so it’s essential to prioritise self-care. Take breaks between interviews, and seek support from colleagues or mentors when needed.
If you want a smooth and efficient hiring process, it’s absolutely crucial that you develop a set of questions that will give you the best insight into whether the interviewee is right for the role.
Here are some example questions to ask.
1. Tell me about a time when you faced a significant challenge at work and how you overcame it.
• This question helps assess problem-solving skills and resilience.
2. Can you provide an example of a project or accomplishment that you’re particularly proud of?
• This question allows candidates to showcase their achievements and strengths.
3. What strategies do you use to stay motivated and productive, especially when working remotely?
• This question evaluates the candidate’s ability to thrive in a remote work setting – a great question for companies that offer hybrid and remote work.
4. How do you handle constructive feedback, and what steps do you take to incorporate it into your work?
• This question assesses the candidate’s receptiveness to feedback and commitment to continuous improvement.
Remember, interviewing is not just about evaluating candidates; it’s also an opportunity to build meaningful connections and foster a positive candidate experience.
So take a deep breath, approach each interview with curiosity and empathy, and trust that you’re making a valuable contribution to your organisation’s growth and success.