Interviews are pivotal in determining the right fit between candidates and organizations. Drawing from my wide range of experiences as a barista, fitness instructor, project engineer, and in retail, I’ve seen firsthand what makes an interview effective and what can hinder the process.
My interview for a project engineering role stood out as particularly effective. The structure was clear, with a standardized set of questions that ensured a comprehensive evaluation of my skills and experiences. However, what truly set this interview apart was the conversational tone that the interviewer had established. It felt less like a robotic Q&A session and more like a genuine conversation, which allowed me to share my insights and ask questions comfortably. This approach not only enhanced the interview’s reliability and validity—ensuring that my responses were assessed against relevant criteria—but also emphasized the importance of person-organization fit (P-O fit). The interviewers were knowledgeable about the role and fostered an atmosphere that made me feel welcome and encouraged open communication, which I think is crucial for assessing cultural alignment.
In contrast, my interview at Target was very different from this positive experience. The atmosphere was tense, and the lack of organization was very noticeable. Questions seemed scattered, and there was little consistency in how my responses were evaluated. This disorganization affected the interview’s utility; without a clear framework, it became challenging to gauge how well I aligned with the role or the company’s values, and the atmosphere most definitely did not allow me to feel comfortable open in my communication.
Based on these experiences, I would advise employers to adopt structured yet conversational interviewing styles (we’re all human at the end of the day, so why shouldn’t it resemble a normal humane conversation!). Effective interviews should prioritize clarity and consistency in questions while fostering a welcoming atmosphere for candidates. Additionally, incorporating realistic job previews can help candidates understand both the positive and challenging aspects of the role. This approach not only enhances candidate experience but also increases the likelihood of finding the best fit for both parties, ultimately leading to better employee retention and satisfaction.
