Preparation for an Interview

Why Interview?

Many employers seek to answer two major questions:

• Does the applicant have the qualifications for the job?
• Is the applicant a good fit for your corporate culture?

List the Desired Skills.

Hard skills - the particular skills, qualifications, and certifications the job requires.

Soft skills - attitude, adaptability, team player, etc.

Consult with Department Supervisors and Employees.

This will help you focus on the right skill requirements during the interview.

List Your Interview Questions.

This helps get the information you need from the applicant. Do they have the hard and soft skills you need?

A Fact Sheet

Include company data and history. Use it during the interview to help answer the applicant's questions.

Job Description

Use it during the interview to give a realistic overview of the job. Point out the good, bad, and unchangeable aspects (e.g. shift work/heavy lifting). Explain the reporting structure, hours, and other relevant details. Don't include salary and benefits on this sheet.

Is more than one person conducting the interview?

Decide who'll ask the questions and who'll take notes.

Take Time to Prepare.

Interviews are often an exchange of information. Strong applicants tend to be enthusiastic and ask thoughtful questions about the position. Be prepared to answer questions such as: "What goals do you hope the person you hire will achieve for your organization?" "Why is your company expanding and hiring?"

See also:

Interviewing for Great Employees: Part I
Interviewing for Great Employees: Part II