A Fresh Take on Interviews: Combining Theory and Real-World Experience

Hello world!

When it comes to job interviews, we’ve all been there—on both sides of the table—and we know that not every interview can hit the mark. But why do some interviews leave us feeling energized and others just… don’t? Let’s dive into the essentials of what can make or break this critical process.

Finding Consistency: The Quest for Reliability

Imagine showing up to an interview and not knowing what to expect because every interviewer does it differently. Reliability is all about predictability and fairness. Through my own experiences and what I’ve learned, I’ve found that when interviews are standardized—same questions, same order—it levels the playing field. It’s a simple change that can make a world of difference.

Asking the Right Questions: The Importance of Validity

We’ve all been hit with those out-of-the-blue interview questions that seem to test our patience more than our job skills. Validity is about making sure interview questions are actually relevant to the job. I remember one interview where I was asked to describe how I handled a specific challenge in my last role. It was a question that made me think and clearly related to what I’d be doing. That’s the kind of question that works.

Efficiency is Key: Understanding Utility

Utility might sound like a business buzzword, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. It means getting the most out of the interview without wasting time or money. I’ve seen companies go through round after round of interviews, and I always think, “Could this have been just as effective with fewer steps?” Often, the answer is yes. Keeping it efficient respects everyone’s time and the company’s resources.

Advice for the Interviewers

So, what would I say to those who have interviewed me, or anyone looking to improve their interview process? Here are some bite-sized tips:

1. Keep it Consistent: Use the same set of questions for every candidate. It’s fairer and easier to compare apples to apples.
2. Make it Relevant: If you’re asking questions, make sure they actually tell you something about how the candidate would perform in the role.
3. Streamline the Process: Look for ways to cut out unnecessary steps. Fewer, more meaningful interviews are better than a marathon that exhausts everyone.
4. Be Clear About the Job: Give candidates a real picture of what they’ll be doing. Surprises are great for birthdays, not job descriptions.
5. Remember, Interviews are a Two-Way Street: Candidates are evaluating you just as much as you’re evaluating them. Make it a positive experience!

At the end of the day, an interview should leave both parties feeling like they’ve learned something valuable. With a few thoughtful tweaks based on reliability, validity, and utility, we can make the interview process work better for everyone involved.