Tip 1 : Prepare questions in advance:An interview format in which all job candidates are asked the same specific questions further ensures that information obtained from candidates is relevant and comprehensive. This method also helps avoid irrelevant content. Asking uniform questions makes candidate responses more directly comparable. Review the candidates' resumes before they arrive. Ask a few specific questions, and then move on to personalized follow up questions.
Tip 2 : Prepare to be flexible:What if the interviewer asks a pre - developed question, but the candidate doesn't provide enough information? Interviewers that simply move on to the next question at this point, without leaving room for follow - up questions often do not collect enough information from candidates. Furthermore, both job candidates and interviewers perceive this format more negatively.
Tip 3 : Ensure the interview isn't too short or too long:Since it is important that all candidates get the same opportunity to answer the same questions - without feeling rushed - it is generally best to limit the number of interview questions. A good rule of thumb is to ask not more than four to six questions in a 30 - minute interview, and not more than eight to 12 questions in a one - hour interview.
Tip 4 : Focus on the interview during the interview:Despite what some experts recommend, the evidence suggests that soliciting candidates to ask questions too soon reduces the interview's reliability. Candidates should only be solicited to ask questions after the conclusion of the interview, allowing engagement on a more personal level.
Tip 5 : Take notes:Note taking creates a professional atmosphere for the interview and makes a candidate feel respected, listened to and encouraged. And since human memory is limited, most interviewers can't remember every candidate's answer to every question. Making a set of specific notes for each interview also allows interviewers to be specific about why they came to certain conclusions about candidates.
Tip 6 : Maintain good eye contact : and be aware of body language. Remember that verbal communication is a small percentage of effective communication so be aware of what is "not being said". . . voice intonation or body language can reveal much information about a person.