Interviewing Tips for Employers and Employees

There are few experiences more nerve-wracking to employers and prospective employees alike than a job interview.  Employers often experience anxiety related to asking legal and effective questions, directing the conversation, gathering important information and, most importantly, choosing the right candidate. On the other hand, prospective employees are faced with the challenges of making a good impression, answering questions thoughtfully, marketing themselves and, ideally, landing the position.  All of these pressures may seem intimidating but there are a few simple rules and tips that can ensure an effective and positive interview experience for everyone involved.

Prospective Employees

• Arrive early or, at the latest, on time.  Not doing so sends up a warning flag for future attendance/punctuality issues.
• Dress appropriately.  You can never be overdressed for a job interview and, in the case of an interview, first impressions are extremely important. 
• Mind your manners.  I once knew a professional employer who would not hire a prospective employee without consulting the receptionist who had greeted and directed the individual upon first entering the workplace.  It is important that you are friendly and respectful to everyone you meet during your visit and assume that someone is always watching and taking notes.
• Make eye contact and use a strong handshake.  Enough said.  
• Be concise.  Answer questions intelligently and effectively but don’t ramble and, most importantly, focus on the positive and always speak respectfully of former employers.
• Do your homework and ask questions.  Have at least a general knowledge of what the position involves and show interest in the organization’s operations by asking thoughtful and intelligent questions.
• Send a follow up thank you note.  Immediately after finishing your interview, mail a handwritten thank you note to the employer that took the time to speak with you.  Little courtesies go a long way.

Employers

• Choose open-ended questions.  Encourage prospective employees to speak and demonstrate their interpersonal and communication skills by asking questions that require more than a yes or no answer.  “Tell me about yourself,” is a simple, yet effective, classic.
• Share a job description.  Briefly review the overall activities of the company and explain where the position being interviewed for fits into the organization.  An updated job description ensures that everyone involved is clear regarding the responsibilities and qualifications (educational, physical, etc.) necessary to succeed in the position.
• Ask only questions that are pertinent to the job.  Straying too far off course can get employers in legal hot water.  Avoid personal questions such as:

-         “How old are you?”

-         “Do you have children?”

-         “Where were you born?”

• Be specific.  Ask questions that reveal specific details and qualifications required for the position.  For instance, if you would like to inquire about an applicant’s availability for work and travel you may ask, “Do you have any obligations that would keep you from work-related travel?” 
• Be honest.  For example, if an employee seems concerned about working too much overtime, be up front about the average weekly overtime hours worked rather than sugar coating the truth.  Doing so will ensure that everyone is clear regarding job expectations and increases the likelihood that new employees will be retained.

The most important goal of any interview is to determine if the candidate can do the job, is motivated to succeed and whether or not he/she could work well with the manager and fit in with the company as a whole. It is also an opportunity to get to know a company or applicant beyond their webpage or resume.  By following some of these simple tips, both employers and prospective employees are sure to ease some of the fears related to interviewing and, hopefully, find their interview to be a positive experience.