There are many different types of interviews but they should all generally follow these 5 steps

• Introduction & Welcome– Establish rapport and explain the purpose of the interview

• Obtain Relevant Information– Use job-related questions

• Discuss the Position– Provide full information about duties and responsibilities

• Respond to the Applicant’s Questions• End the Interview

– Express appreciation of their time– Explain when decision will be made and how they will be

notified

Phone Screen vs. Phone Interview

• A phone interview should be scheduled with a candidate

• A phone screen is merely the call to set up that interview, and ask a few basic things (phone number, best time to call, interest level)

• To be fair to the candidate, give them an opportunity to schedule the interview

• Set up a phone interview after phone screen

The Phone Interview

As an employer, you are looking for 3 things

– Fill in any missing information– Assess communication– Gauge interest and fit for the position

Most important: Make the phone interview count as a meaningful part of the screening and hiring process

The Phone Interview: Missing Information

• Filling in any missing information is done to make sure the candidate has the right skills and abilities for the job

• Make sure you have a copy of their resume and job description on hand

• Jot down questions on their resume that need clarification

• Anything that is unclear needs to be addresses at a preliminary level before the candidate is brought in for a face to face interview

The Phone Interview: Assess Communication

• The phone interview gives you a chance to assess verbal communication skills– You can tell more about how things are said rather

than what is said• Warning signs– Long pauses when asked clarifying questions– Lots of uh’s and um’s or stumbling over answers– Lack of preparation– Not in a quiet place

The Phone Interview: Gauge Interest & Fit

• To gauge interest, ask candidate about what they are looking for in their next position– Ask them to explain why they applied or

expressed interest• Gauging fit is a bit more difficult– Ask the candidate about their style of work, or

ideal work environment– Gain a better understanding about what they are

looking for and what they are accustomed to in their job

Skype Interviews

• Done online and provides video feed of both the candidate and the interviewer

• Allows you to interact with the candidate and see their professional appearance– Great alternative for candidates who cannot come

onsite for an interview• Make sure there is a good connection on both

ends (employer and candidate)– May be necessary to do a trial run

Skype Interviews

• Make sure to answer any questions the candidate may have about the video process

• Look at the camera, not the screen• Be aware of possible interruptions• Make sure candidate is professional in their

dress and demeanor• Consider having other employers review the

interview after completion