Whether you’re running a first or final interview, this practical interviewer checklist will help your recruitment process run more smoothly so you can focus on hiring the best person for the job.
The basics
Just as it is for the interviewee, taking the time to prepare in advance is key to conducting successful interviews. Here are some of the basics you need to cover off;
Send the candidate an interview confirmation email. This should include parking details, address, where to go on arrival, job description and any documentation they need to bring.
Book a private/quiet room for the interview (both face to face and telephone/video).
Print the candidate’s CV so you have it to hand throughout the interview.
Note down anything of interest from the CV and any additional details you’ll need to find out.
Check if the candidate needs any reasonable accommodations for the interview or has any accessibility requirements.
Set time aside in your diary so you can meet the candidate promptly.
Prepare and follow a set interview structure to allow for a fair comparison against other candidates.
Format and Structure
Always make sure your interviews follow a set format to allow for a fair comparison against other candidates. You can start the interview by explaining the format to the candidate, so they know what to expect.
Introduce yourself and your role.
Give an overview of the team and business – structure, divisions, projects, vision, values.
Set out the key role requirements and basic responsibilities
Ask your prepared questions
Ask the candiate if they have any questions
Keep to a timeframe (typically 45 minutes to an hour is the optimum length)
Thank them for their time and give them a timeline for when they can expect to hear back and stick to it.
Give the candidate feedback whether they’ve been successful or not.
If you think they’d be a good fit for another team in your business then ask if you can share their details. Or if you think you may have a different role for them in the future then ask if you can keep their contact information and CV.
