Must-Dos During a Job Interview - For Interviewers

Hiring the right person is crucial for any company, and a well-run interview can make all the difference. A good interview isn’t just about asking questions, it’s about having a real conversation, evaluating candidates fairly, and making sure they leave with a great impression of your company. Here are ten things every interviewer should do to make the process smooth, professional, and effective.

Be Prepared

Don’t go into the interview blind. Review the candidate’s resume, cover letter, and any assessments beforehand. Know what you’re looking for in a candidate and have your key questions ready.

Make the Candidate Feel Welcome

A job interview can be nerve-wracking. Start with a warm introduction, offer a bit of small talk, and explain what to expect during the interview. A relaxed candidate will give you a much more genuine response.

Ask Clear and Relevant Questions

Stick to structured, job-related questions that assess both skills and cultural fit. A good mix of behavioural (“Tell me about a time when...”) and technical questions will help you get a full picture of the candidate.

Listen More Than You Talk

It’s easy to dominate the conversation, but let the candidate do most of the talking. Give them time to answer, avoid interrupting, and show genuine interest in what they have to say.

Look Beyond Just Skills

Skills matter, but so do attitude, communication, and problem-solving abilities. Consider how they’d fit in with the team and whether they align with the company culture.

Be Honest About the Job and Company

Give a real picture of what working at your company is like, the good and the challenges. This helps set the right expectations and avoids mismatches down the line.

Encourage Candidate Questions

The questions a candidate asks can tell you a lot about them. Make sure they have time to ask about the role, team, and company, and answer them openly.

Take Notes and Stay Objective

Jot down key points during the interview so you can remember details later. Using a consistent evaluation system for all candidates helps keep things fair and avoids gut-feeling decisions.

Manage Time Well

Keep the interview on track. Be conversational but focused, going too long or off-topic can make things drag and leave a bad impression.

Be Clear About Next Steps

Before wrapping up, let the candidate know what to expect next. If possible, provide feedback, even if they don’t move forward. A little transparency goes a long way in creating a positive experience.

Final Thoughts

A great interview process isn’t just about finding the right hire, it’s also about leaving candidates with a good impression of your company. By following these steps, you’ll not only make better hiring decisions but also create a smoother and more professional experience for everyone involved.