The Great Resignation began in the spring of 2021; it describes the high rate in which workers resigned from their jobs. The world is changing, gone are the days when employees were committed to a life-long career with one company. The reasons are many, including a shift in priorities, dissatisfaction with roles, or a better offer with another company. As a result, the power dynamics in employment have changed, people are more concerned about having the right job, than having a job. Therefore, companies must ensure that they are presenting themselves in the best light during the interview process to secure the top candidates. Here is how to conduct an impressive interview in 2023.
The 5 Steps to the Interview Process
The interview process typically happens in five steps, here’s some insight into what should take place during each stage.
1. Introductions
As mentioned, the power dynamics between the employer and the employee have changed. Today, candidates are accepting interviews to determine whether the company is a good fit for them. They want to know whether they can work with you. Research suggests that the first seven seconds of meeting someone are the most important. Our brains make numerous computations during this time as we assess whether a person is trustworthy, likeable, and competent. The impression you create should be a combination of your body language, personality, and communication skills. The hiring manager represents the company, the organization might be phenomenal, but if it isn’t represented properly during the interview, candidates are likely to decline if they’re accepted. Here are a few tips on how to get the introduction off to a good start:
● Prepare: Don’t come to the interview empty handed. In 2022, over 90% of recruiters researched their candidates on social media. Find out as much information about the interviewee as possible. You may not need to use it, but it might come in handy during small talk because it demonstrates that you’re actually interested in them as a person and not just what they can offer the company.
● Smile: Research suggests that people trust and like you more when you smile. A smile helps build rapport and displays happiness, friendliness, and confidence.
● Eye Contact: Whether you meet with the candidate virtually or in person, positive body language is important. Eye contact implies trust and sincerity, and it helps keep the candidate focused and engaged.
● Empathy: Demonstrating empathy enables you to connect with the interviewee. Express your gratitude by thanking them for taking the time out to meet with you. State that you understand how valuable their time is, and you don’t intend on wasting it.
2. Small Talk
This is where your preparation about the candidate comes in handy. Keep the conversation light by asking them about their pets, hobbies, or a recent vacation they might have been on.
3. Information Gathering
Now it’s time to put the candidate to the test and get them to tell you about themselves. At this stage, you’ll typically ask for their elevator pitch. While they’re speaking, pay close attention to the following:
● Is their speech concise?
● Is their speech structured?
● Does the interviewee sound confident about their qualifications and abilities?
● Are they making eye contact?
4. Questions and Answers
Have a set of standardized questions ready to ask the candidate. These questions will help determine whether their experience is relevant to the needs of the company. Additionally, ask if they want to ask any questions. Those who are serious about employment will have several questions to ask because they want to determine whether the company is a good fit for them. Therefore, it’s important to prepare to answer difficult questions so that you’re not disorientated when answering.
5. Wrapping Up
The end of an interview is just as important as the beginning. Use this time to tie up any loose ends. The candidate should leave feeling confident and excited about the company they could be potentially working for. Some tips for ending the interview on a high note include:
● Offering the candidate a tour of the office
● Let the interviewee know what to expect next
● Confirm contact information and the best way to make contact
● A firm handshake
How Many Rounds of Interview is Normal?
Companies hold multiple rounds of interviews to evaluate soft skills such as critical thinking, communication, and interpersonality. Multiple interviews are also a good way to get to know potential employees to determine whether they’re a good fit for the company. Typically, between two to four rounds of interviewing is the norm. However, there are generally more than four for high level executive positions.
Conducting interviews in 2023 requires a proactive approach to adapt to the changing dynamics of the job market. The traditional interview process has evolved and if companies want to attract and keep the top talent, it’s essential that they are constantly looking for innovative ways to engage candidates.
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