Giving an interview

GIVING AN INTERVIEW

Whether you’re a hiring manager or journalist, conducting a successful interview requires solid preparation. If you’re giving a job interview, you’ll need to come up with questions that target the skills a successful candidate should possess. For a journalistic interview, you’ll need to thoroughly research the topic and interviewee in advance. You’ll also need plenty of prep if you’re being interviewed, so set aside ample time to practice responding to potential questions.

Come up with questions based on the qualifications the job requires. Start by reviewing the specific skills, attributes, and responsibilities listed in the job description. If possible, ask people who’ve held that position or work in that department what qualities a successful candidate needs to possess. Then prepare questions that target those key factors.[1]

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  Suppose one key skill for a job in purchasing is inventory management. A good question would be, “How have you ensured accurate inventory analysis in a prior position?”
  
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  Have your prepared questions handy at the interview, and be sure to take notes during each interview you conduct.
  

Open up with a little small talk to break the ice. Interviews are stressful, so try to put the candidate at ease. They’ll perform better if they’re more comfortable, and you’ll be able to assess their qualifications without their nerves getting in the way.[2]

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  For example, when the candidate arrives, offer coffee, tea, or water, or ask “How is your morning so far? Did you run into any traffic on the way?”
  

Pose general questions about the candidate's experience. After exchanging pleasantries, ask around 2 or 3 straightforward, fact-based questions about the information on their resume. Inquire about prior responsibilities and accomplishments, why they want to leave their current job, and why they think they’d be a good fit for a position with your company.[3]

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  Ask, for example, “What were your primary responsibilities at your last position?” and “Why did you decide to pursue a career in this industry?”
  
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  If necessary, you should also give the candidate the opportunity to explain anything that seems out of place on their resume. Examples include employment gaps and changing careers from one industry to another.