3.1(e) Interview format
The interview needs to have an opening, a body and a closing. As well as this you need pre- and post-interview time. Allow for this in your planning.
Take time to familiarise yourself with the applicant’s resume and letter or application form, making notes of any queries. Read through the questions that you are going to ask. Check that the interview room is prepared.
Opening
Introduce yourself and your role. You need to establish rapport with the candidate. This should be possible by discussing a topic from the resume.
Some people like to give some information about the company and explain the role at the start of the interview, whereas others like to leave this until the end. Explain to the candidate the format of the interview.
Body
Ask prepared questions. It is usually appropriate to start with technical questions that have arisen from the candidate’s resume (e.g. ‘Your resume shows that you worked for three years in… role. What were your duties there?’). This clears up any questions that you have and is also an easy place to start for the candidate.
Closing
Give the candidate opportunity to ask questions. Explain what the next step in the process is and how long until they should expect to hear how they went. Thank them and show them out.
Look over your notes and add any details while they are still fresh in your mind. Fill out any summary sheet that you have prepared. If it has been a panel interview, discuss any issues.