How to Interview Candidates for a Job

Are you a person who hires employees? If so, these tips for interviewing candidates has worked well for me and my team of co-workers. It's important to choose the right fit for your operation.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Job announcement
• Resume of candidate
• Uninterrupted private time for interview
• List of questions
• Pitcher of water and cups

1. The first step is the select the top candidates from your many applications. This number varies, but only choose the ones that you feel are most qualified for the position for your first interviews.

2. Make sure the person who schedules the interviews is knowledgeable and well spoken on the phone. First impressions count.

3. When your candidate arrives, invite them in and make them feel comfortable. Offer water or another beverage during the interview. You want to make a good impression on them as much as they want to impress you.

4. Now you're ready to begin. Start by introducing yourself and the committee and ask the candidate an open-ended question such as:
   
   Tell me about yourself...
   Tell us why you are interested in this position....
   Why do you think you would fit into our organization?

5. Continue interviewing your candidate with your pre-determined questions. Before you are finished, ask your candidate if they want to add anything that wasn't covered. Finish with questions and answers.

6. After the interview is over, thank the candidate and be sure to let him or her know your hiring schedule.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure write standard questions prior to the interview.
• Even though there may be more applicants for each job, the employer always should take the time to conduct a professional and fair interview.