Dear Workforce How Do We Guide Managers to Ask the Right Questions When Interviewing Candidates

Dear Searching:

Having the right fit is the key to keeping talent on board. Although managers do have the clearest sense of which employees are the right fit for an organization, they often see the selection process as a less-important part of their job. By “right fit” we mean a person whose skills (technical and interpersonal) and interests match the requirements of the position at hand, and whose core values are consistent with those of the organization. Your managers need to spend time identifying the critical success factors for a position, preparing for and conducting thorough interviews, evaluating and comparing the candidates, and selling the job and the organization. Here are some tips:

Determine Fit

● Analyze the job and get input from others to clarify tasks, traits, and style required.

● Prepare for your interview using a grid with your questions:

1. Create set questions to make certain the candidate has the skills and style you are looking for.
2. Ask behaviorally based interview questions about candidates’ past experiences, and be consistent by asking them of all candidates.
3. Use appropriate testing and assessment tools.
4. Involve multiple interviewers to get diverse perspectives about each candidate.
5. Ask the candidates what would entice them enough to take your job vs. that of key competitors; make sure you are meeting their needs as well.

Sell the Candidate

● Be prepared to sell your position, team and organization by addressing the key issues raised by each candidate.

● Think carefully about what you and your team can offer and be ready to give specific examples. For example, if you are offering a great team environment and camaraderie, demonstrate that by having all team members meet and briefly talk with your top candidates.

● Think about your team or organizational “wow” factors–those things that differentiate you from all others. It might be your cutting-edge technology, ultra-creative environment or fun-filled atmosphere.

“Fit is it” when it comes to hiring. If you get the right people in the right roles on your team and for your organization, you will absolutely increase the odds of retaining them in the future.

SOURCE: Beverly Kaye, co-author, Love ‘Em or Lose ‘Em: Getting Good People to Stay (Berrett-Koehler, 2005), July 17, 2006.

LEARN MORE: Please seeHow Do I Develop a Competency Model for Recruiting? for additional perspective.

The information contained in this article is intended to provide useful information on the topic covered, but should not be construed as legal advice or a legal opinion. Also remember that state laws may differ from the federal law.