3.1(b) Preparing the environment

• Organise a room where privacy can be assured.
• Contact the applicants, advise them where to come, whom to ask for and whom to contact if they are unable to attend
• Notify appropriate personnel in the organisation let your receptionist know the names of the applicants and interview times
• Provide a reception area where applicants can wait in comfort
• Set up interview room to be as attractive as possible. Lighting should be at a comfortable level and ensure that neither the candidate nor the interviewers are affected by glare.
• Seating should be arranged to encourage a relaxed flowing style of interview. Seats being placed on opposite sides of a desk are not conducive to a friendly relaxed environment.
• Schedule enough time for each interview so that you are not rushed and that your candidates do not meet each other yet.
• Interruptions should be prevented so make arrangements with your staff in advance.
• Have questions and paperwork ready beforehand so that you have a file for each candidate. This will avoid clutter and reduce the risk of you being embarrassed by referring to the incorrect candidate.
• Review applications review the applicant’s résumé or application form before each interview.

Addressing these details will reassure the applicant that you are taking the interview process seriously and that the applicant matters as an individual. It will also enhance the image of your business.