Making a positive impression when interviewing candidates is an important part of the recruitment process. Not only does it set the tone for the rest of the selection process, but it also gives you a chance to ensure that your candidate has the right skills, values and approach for your organization.
Here are some tips on how to make a positive impression when interviewing candidates:
- Prepare thoroughly for the interview – Before meeting with each candidate, take some time to go over their resumes and experience in detail. When you know more about their experience and qualifications, it will help you ask the right questions and get a better understanding of whether they are suitable for your opening.
- First impressions count – Always greet your candidates with confidence and warmth. Let them know that you appreciate them taking the time to meet with you by introducing yourself and your organization, as well as explaining what role they are being interviewed for.
- Make sure everyone is comfortable – Make sure that both parties feel comfortable throughout the interview process by setting a welcoming tone early and offering advice throughout where necessary. It’s also important to be aware of non-verbal cues during an interview; if someone looks uncomfortable or nervous, make sure that they’re okay before continuing any further or ask if there is anything you can do to help make them feel more at ease.
- Ask meaningful questions – You should always have a comprehensive list of questions prepared in advance that relate directly to the job in question so that you can gain insight into who might be best suited for it. Try to avoid asking questions which could lead to long-winded answers; instead opt for open-ended questions that encourage conversation between yourself and your candidate(s).
- Follow up after interviews – Following up after an interview helps show applicants that their time was valued by your company and allows them to provide feedback on how they felt about their experience as well as answer any lingering questions they may have had during or after the meeting itself.
- Show gratitude – Make sure that each applicant knows how appreciative you are of their interest in joining your team by thanking them personally at the end of each session no matter what outcome comes from it; this offers closure and also shows respect for each individual who takes part in an interview process regardless of whether or not they receive an offer or not at its conclusion.
- Provide honest feedback – If unfortunately, a candidate doesn’t get offered a role following an interview then make sure that constructive feedback is provided so they know exactly why this decision was made; this will allow them to work on any areas where improvement is needed should they ever come back again in future applications (and many do!) while also helping strengthen relationships between potential staff members and employers alike which can result in better outcomes overall down the line – something everyone involved wants!
By following these tips and building a good relationship with your interviewees, you will help ensure that your recruitment process is efficient and successful and will also help you create an atmosphere of respect and positivity around each stage.
Want more tips on interviewing accounting and finance candidates. Reach out to us here.
