Good, better, best: how to take your job interviews to the next level
There is no gold standard for job interviews. It continues to be people work and, of course, it is not an exact science. However, this does not mean that basic rules do not apply. A certain degree of etiquette ensures that both the interviewer and the candidate know what to expect.
Despite basic etiquette regarding job interviews, many candidates still fail to present the best version of themselves. Extraverts and smooth talkers often have a considerable advantage here.
The default advice is often to brief your applicants in advance or make sure you provide a good atmosphere and a cup of coffee. Speaking passionately about your own position is also often recommended. Yet there are ways to get much more out of your candidates during the job interview. You can achieve this by applying the following tips:
Tip 1: The importance of an extended hand.
Handshaking is extremely important; in fact, you should almost walk up with an outstretched hand. Why? Because this is what makes you appear confident and, above all, trustworthy. By doing so, you guarantee that you will adhere to etiquette, this reassures your candidate that the interview will follow the unwritten rules and a set process.
Tip 2: Mirroring
The research of psychologists Chartrand & Bargh shows that mirroring (imitating someone’s behavior patterns, body language, expressions and tone of voice) builds social connection. By consciously applying this, you put your applicant at ease. With a more quiet candidate, for example, you can be more reserved yourself and schedule longer pauses between sentences.
Be aware that while mirroring is very useful in getting to know a candidate better, it can also quickly become awkward. For example, mimicking your applicant’s every move is definitely not advisable.
Tip 3: Don’t just pick people who look like you.
According to the Harvard Business Review, we automatically tend to choose people who look like us. By recognizing your bias, you make sure you avoid this. By seeking out people who are less like you, you create diversity within your company. When you find that your preference goes to a particular candidate, first consider whether this is because the candidate is similar to you. Try to choose what the company needs.
Tip 4: Make space for silence.
We naturally try to avoid uncomfortable silences. Try not to do this, especially with introverted and quieter candidates. Give applicants time to think and don’t fill their sentences. By giving them time to think and respond, you offer them space to open themselves up. Especially with introverted candidates, completing their sentences can be off-putting.
Though a job interview isn’t an exact science, it is beneficial to experiment with what works for you. Hopefully these five tips will help you find the ideal candidate.
