Tips for conducting a job interview

Talent and skill shortages have placed added importance on job interviews. With the workforce continuing to be a candidate’s market, getting the recruitment process right has never been more important.

Fortunately, Hays provided some resources to help nail the recruitment process. From the job description, to the interview preparation, to the interview itself, here are some tips for getting it right.

Job description

The first step in hiring someone is attracting them. This is done through a job description, which is why getting it right is so important.

According to Hays, there are two types of job descriptions: a position description and a person specification. Each should be treated differently, and one or the other should be used depending on the type of role you’re trying to fill.

Position description, which should include:

1. Company description
2. Overview of the job
3. Reporting lines and training
4. Salary
5. Benefits
6. Diversity statement

Person specification, which should include:

1. Required skills
2. Required competencies
3. Qualifications
4. Level of experience

Preparing for the interview

When thinking of a job interview, one would assume that the preparation is reserved for the candidate. However, the interviewer should be equally prepared if they’re to hire successfully.

Hays gave eight questions that are likely to pop up during an interview:

1. How would you describe your management style?
2. How would you describe the organisational culture?
3. Is this role new? If not, how has it evolved over time?
4. How do you support the learning and development of your staff, and what career pathways are available?
5. How does the team fit into the overall structure of the organisation?
6. What does success look like in this role and in this team?
7. What are the main challenges your organisation is currently facing, and how are you responding?
8. How often will my performance be reviewed?

The interview

The main event is the interview itself. It can be daunting for all involved, which is why preparation is key. Hays said the best ways to set up a successful interview are:

• Read the candidate’s CV before the interview.
• Don’t be too quick to judge.
• Be timely.
• Put the candidate at ease from the start.
• Avoid a robotic introduction.
• Work on your questioning technique.

These tips can help the process to go as smoothly as possible. The questions are another key area that requires attention, as they’re the foundation. Hays listed some points that should be covered:

• Soft skills
• Cultural fit
• Ask about their ambitions
• Avoid closed questions