Safari Solutions Newsletter
November 2006, Volume #29
Interviews are an essential component of the hiring process. The most predictive interviews have a high degree of structure. Read on to learn how to improve hiring results through a structured interview approach!
Ann Clifford
Dos and Don'ts
Is it OK to discuss news, such as sporting events or recent election results, with candidates during an interview?
See answer provided below.
Lay the Groundwork for Successful Interviews
Preparation ensures your interview time is productive. Create a standardized list of questions for each position that addresses the essential success factors for that role. The following interview categories provide a solid basis of comparison among candidates.
Do they know how to do the job? Ask about specific experience and technical skills such as computer programs, industry best practices, management experience, etc.
Can they do the job? Ask about specific requirements for the position such as work schedules, personal transportation, or travel.
How will they do the job? Ask behavioral based questions about past work related experiences that are similar to situations they may encounter in the position.
For more information on structuring interviews, click here to download our free Safari Interview Guide.
(By Allison Witmeier, Safari Solutions HR Consultant)
Red Flags – Hiring Manager Beware!
Interviews can be stressful for candidates. And, not all candidates can clearly communicate their skills and talents in an interview situation.
Think twice before hiring a candidate if they can’t. . .
Identify a weakness or a mistake.
Describe or quantify accomplishments.
Identify the most important function of his or her current position.
Explain why he or she wants the job.
(Source: HR.com)
Safari Interview Tip
Identify your competition by asking, “Do you have any other offers or interviews that you are interested in?” Candidates may not provide specific details, yet you should learn if there are other opportunities being considered. Follow up with, “How does our opportunity stack up against the other opportunities you are considering?”
Safari Success Story
Lee Supply, an HVAC and plumbing supplier with 13 locations, engaged Safari Solutions to bring consistency to their decentralized hiring. Lee Supply 's hiring managers utilized Safari Solutions' Tiger Eye Hiring Process to hire sales respresentatives and a warehouse manager. A structured and consistent interview process improved their hiring results.
Did You Know
Ann Clifford, President of Safari Solutions, recently moderated a lively panel discussion on “Attracting and Retaining Employees.” Fifty past winners of the Blue Chip Business Award, sponsored by WestPoint Financial Group, attended the workshop. Learn about best practices recommended by Indiana business owners and hiring experts by downloading a copy of the following discussion notes.
Click here!
Safari Quiz
As an interviewer, what percentage of time should you spend talking versus listening?
A. 50% talking, 50% listening
B. 60% talking, 40% listening
C. 20% talking, 80% listening
D. 35% talking, 65% listening
Click Here for the Answer.
Answer to Today's Dos and Don'ts
Is it OK to discuss news, such as sporting events or recent election results, with candidates during an interview?
Talking off script may build rapport, yet it can open the doors to discrimination issues. While it is unlikely that someone will file a lawsuit over bringing up the latest Colts score, candidates may misinterpret your remarks. It is best to stick to universal subjects. The weather is always a safe topic!
(Source: Allison Witmeier, HR Consultant, Safari Solutions)
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