Getting the right candidate in the door can be challenging, which is why it's crucial you are as prepared as possible for the interview phase. In order to learn the most you can about a potential new employee and understand if they are the right fit for the position, there are a few mistakes you should avoid during the interview. Below, we've outlined these 5 mistakes, and what you can do to ensure you don't end up making them.
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1. Failure to prepare
'Be prepared' is good advice for any situation, but it's especially smart to prepare for your interviews - and we don't mean just reading an incoming candidate's resume. Make sure you know exactly who you're talking to, ensure you are able to take notes and recall the conversation for your team, and be prepared on what questions you'd like to ask (more on that below). You also want to know exactly how the interview will run, whether or not you'll be conducting it alone or if you plan on bringing in various other colleagues.
2. Spending too much time talking
It's tempting to want to talk throughout the entire interview, but is that the best way you can learn about a potential new employee? Take time to craft an interview experience that will allow you to learn the full breadth of your interviewee. Look closely at the role you're hiring for and consider conducting certain tests that will allow you to get a more hands-on feel for the candidate.
3. Asking the wrong questions
Asking the wrong questions can be an immense waste of not just your time, but the interviewee and your company's time, as well. By asking the right questions, you'll be able to narrow down why this candidate is or isn't a good fit for the role, and if they are going to fit in and vibe with your company's culture. This is a great list of questions that we compiled from hiring managers who know first hand what's best to ask during an interview.
4. Hiring personality, not skills
Sure, the candidate you're interviewing may seem like a great person who you'd love to strike up a friendship with, but does that mean they are the best match for the role and for your company overall? When interviewing, make sure you're hiring for skills and experience, and not just personality. While personality is a great indicator of whether they'll make for a friendly co-worker, it doesn't necessarily mean they will be able to perform the tasks required of them. Make sure that when you're interviewing, you are conducting a full assessment of how this candidate will help your company succeed.
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5. Not following up
This advice may seem obvious for the candidate interviewing, but it's equally as important for the interviewer to follow up post-interview. By doing so, you'll show the candidate that you are serious (or not) about hiring them, which is in good faith and helps candidates manage expectations. Also, there may be questions that you need to follow up on and provide more context or feedback on. If you get in the habit of following up post-interview, you're more likely to hire the candidate you always dreamed of for the open role.
