Conducting Natural and Authentic Interviews
Welcome back to our ongoing quest to become better bosses and leaders. In this blog, we'll dive into one pivotal aspect of building a strong team: the interview process. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting, let's explore how to keep your interviews natural and authentic for the best results.
Remember, to get to the interview process is actually the last step to hiring. Make sure you are prepared and know what to do before the hire have thoughtfully reviewed their resume, it is more of an art than you may think!
The Visual Assessment: Dressing for the Role
Interviews often start with a visual assessment. What a candidate chooses to wear can speak volumes about their professionalism and suitability for the job. For in-person interviews, it's crucial that candidates present themselves appropriately. Casual attire might send the wrong message, so take note of how they dress.
Video Interviews: The New Norm
In our digital age, video interviews have become more common. Despite the remote setting, the importance of attire remains. A candidate's appearance in a video interview can indicate their readiness for the role. Are they dressed for success, or are they too casual? Even in a virtual setting, professionalism matters.
The Sports Bra Dilemma: Professionalism Matters
Picture this: a candidate appears for a video interview wearing a sports bra and flip-flops. While it might be tempting to overlook their attire, it's a significant red flag. Such casual dressing suggests a lack of professionalism and a failure to meet interview expectations. Your employees won't be wearing sports bras at work, so it's essential that candidates understand and respect these norms.
In-Person Interviews: Dressing Appropriately
For in-person interviews, the candidate's attire is equally important. One time, a candidate showed up wearing sweatpants and flip-flops for an interview in the high-end wedding planning industry. This choice of attire clashed with the job's requirements and the professional environment. Regardless of the job, dressing appropriately demonstrates respect for the role and the company.
The Impact of Attire: First Impressions Matter
The way a candidate presents themselves hints at their ability to meet professional expectations. It signifies more than just fashion sense; it reflects their grasp of the working world and their potential fit within your organization.
Revealing Priorities: What Matters to Them
The interview is not just about formalities. When you ask candidates to tell you about themselves, you're looking for hints of relatability. Are they comfortable with small talk? Can they connect with strangers? These skills are vital, particularly if your job demands client interaction or teamwork. The candidate's response can reveal their priorities—personal life, friends, family, or their professional journey and goals.
Honesty Is the Best Policy
Use the interview as an opportunity to be honest about the role. Share both the good and the challenging aspects of the job. This approach helps candidates understand what the position entails and prevents unpleasant surprises later on. Honesty in interviews sets realistic expectations for both you and the candidate.
Detailed Notes: Your Memory Saver
Interviewing multiple candidates can be overwhelming. Detailed notes are your best friend. Whether handwritten or digital, they ensure you have a comprehensive record of the interview process, from attire to personal details and everything in between.
In Conclusion
The key to the interview process is keeping it natural and authentic. The attire a candidate chooses and the way they present themselves provide essential insights into their professionalism. Asking open-ended questions can help gauge their ability to connect with others and their cultural fit. Remember, honesty is vital to set the right expectations, and meticulous note-taking ensures nothing is overlooked.
Stay tuned on the podcast for more insights and tips as we continue our journey to becoming better bosses and leaders. If you are looking for 1-on-1 help, let’s chat about getting you a coaching session!
