Introduction
As an interviewer, it’s your job to get the information you need while creating a comfortable atmosphere for the interviewee. You’ll want to come off as professional, but also friendly. Researching the interviewee beforehand is key, as well as preparing questions tailored to their experience and background. Additionally, understanding what you are looking for in the interviewee is essential. This article will explore tips and techniques on how to start an interview as the interviewer.
Research the Interviewee
Before the interview, take time to research the interviewee. Make sure you understand their background and experience. According to a study by the Society for Human Resource Management, “Good preparation is a critical part of any job interview process. The more prepared you are, the better the chances of making the right hiring decision.” This research should include the basics, such as their education and work history, as well as more detailed information like recent projects or awards they may have received. All of this information will help you tailor your questions and make the interviewee feel more comfortable.
Prepare Questions
Once you’ve done your research, create a list of questions that will help you understand the interviewee’s qualifications, skills, and goals. These questions should be tailored to their background and experience, and should be open-ended so that you can get the most out of each answer. For example, instead of asking “What kind of experience do you have?” try asking “What experiences have you had that have prepared you for this position?”. This will allow the interviewee to go into greater depth about their qualifications.
Introduce Yourself and Set the Tone
Once you meet the interviewee, give a brief introduction of yourself and let them know what to expect. Be sure to explain the purpose of the interview and any topics that you plan to cover. This will help the interviewee feel more at ease, and will also help you stay on track during the interview. It’s also important to create a friendly atmosphere. According to a study by the University of California, Berkeley, “A good interview starts with a warm welcome and a positive attitude.” This will help the interviewee feel more comfortable and relaxed, which can lead to a more productive interview.
Start with an Icebreaker
Starting with an icebreaker is a great way to break the tension and get the interviewee talking. Ask an easy question that will get the conversation flowing. For example, you could ask “What did you do before coming here today?” or “How did you first hear about this position?”. This will help the interviewee feel more comfortable and will also help you get to know them better.
Clarify Your Expectations
It’s important to make sure that both parties are on the same page. Clarify your expectations for the interview, such as the topics that you plan to cover and the type of answers you are looking for. This will help the interviewee prepare and will also help you stay focused during the interview.
Listen
Once the interview has started, it’s important to listen to the answers that the interviewee gives. Take notes as necessary so that you can refer back to them later. Listening attentively will show the interviewee that you are engaged and interested in what they have to say, which can help create a more productive interview.
Conclusion
Starting an interview as the interviewer can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Taking the time to research the interviewee beforehand, preparing questions tailored to their background and experience, setting the tone, and listening attentively are all essential components of a successful interview. By following these tips and techniques, you can make the interview process easier for both you and the interviewee.
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