Effective Interviewing Techniques
By: Calla Krummel
Reflections on Interview Effectiveness: Insights from Recent Experiences
Throughout my journey of job hunting, I’ve had the opportunity to interview for a couple of roles, most notably at Good Samaritan Hospital and the Accounts Payable department on campus. Each interview experience has reinforced my understanding of what makes an interview effective, particularly regarding reliability, validity, and utility.
The Importance of Clear Communication and Structure
One standout element from my recent interviews was the clear communication during the scheduling process. The hiring manager at Good Samaritan reached out promptly to set up a time, and the entire process felt organized and professional. This clarity is crucial; it establishes a sense of professionalism and respect from the outset. During the interviews, I appreciated the well-structured questions that allowed me to showcase my skills and experiences in a focused manner. This structured format not only enhanced the reliability of the assessment but also ensured that I felt prepared and understood the expectations.
Active listening played a pivotal role in these interviews. My interviewers engaged with my responses, encouraging me to elaborate on my experiences. This active engagement created an open dialogue, making the interviews feel more personable. It also contributed to the validity of the assessment, allowing for a more comprehensive evaluation of my fit for the positions.
Challenges in Past Interviews
Reflecting on past interviews, I’ve encountered less effective practices that highlighted the pitfalls of poor interview techniques. For example, I once faced an interviewer who dominated the conversation, leaving little room for my questions or clarifications. This imbalance can create a stressful atmosphere that hinders effective communication and understanding. Additionally, poor time management in interviews has often led to rushed conversations, diminishing the overall experience and obscuring the true qualifications of a candidate.
Another common issue has been the lack of follow-up after the interview. Timely feedback is essential for candidates, whether they are selected or not. This practice not only demonstrates professionalism but also helps candidates understand their standing and areas for improvement.
Advice for Employers
To improve the effectiveness of interviews, I would advise employers to focus on creating a welcoming environment that encourages relationship- building. Establishing a comfortable atmosphere can significantly ease interview anxiety and promote clearer communication. Additionally, employing structured interview methods, as suggested in our course materials, would enhance reliability and reduce bias in candidate evaluations.
In conclusion, effective interviews hinge on clear communication, structured questioning, and active listening. By avoiding dominating conversations and ensuring timely follow-ups, employers can create a more positive and productive interview experience for all candidates. Companies that invest in a solid interview process not only find suitable candidates but also create a lasting positive impression that resonates well beyond the hiring process.
Sources Cited:
Buckingham, Marcus, and Curt W Coffman. First, Break All the Rules : What the World’s Greatest Managers Do Differently, Gallup Press, 2014. ProQuest Ebook Central, https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/osu/detail.action?docID=1584214.
University of North Georgia. (2022). Tips for a Successful Interview. University of North Georgia. https://ung.edu/career-services/online-career-resources/interview-well/tips-for-a-successful-interview.php
Interviewer tips for conducting a perfect job interview. (n.d.). Reed.com. https://www.reed.com/articles/interviewer-tips-for-conducting-a-perfect-job-interview
Swift, M. (n.d.). Wk 5 Lecture 2 – Interview Selection. HRk MGMT.