9 Interview Tips From Waterloo Orientation Advisors

With Orientation Leader interviews just around the corner, we've put together 9 tips to help you find the best candidates for the job.

1. Be prepared and be on time

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It is just as important for interviewers to be on time and prepared for the interview as it is for your candidates. Review the job description and responsibilities of the job you are interviewing for ahead of time, and make sure you give yourself enough time to get to the interview location.

2. Learn about the candidate

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Make sure you review the candidates application and/or resume prior to their interview. It is helpful to remind yourself of their previous experiences, and ask follow-up questions regarding their application during the interview if necessary.

3. Be consistent with questions

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Ask each candidate the same questions. This will allow for consistency in the interview process and provide a basis to compare candidates. Ask one question at a time so candidates are able to focus on what is being asked, and provide an appropriate response.

4. Ask questions that reflect the job responsibilities

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Review the responsibilities of the job you are interviewing for, and ask questions that relate to the work they will be doing if selected for the position. Make sure to ask behavioural/scenario questions where they have to provide a specific example, i.e. "tell us about a time when...". Previous successes are a good indicator of future performance.

5. Don't talk too much

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Interviewers should only talk about 30% of the time. Interviews are a time for you to get to know the candidate!

6. Listen, listen, listen

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This may seem easy, or obvious but ensure you stay focused throughout the interview and really listen to what your candidate is saying. Being a strong listener will show your interest in the candidate, and encourage them to speak of their qualifications.

7. Watch for non-verbal signals

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Listening is very important, but you should also learn to read non-verbal cues. For example, if they are dressed appropriately, if they were on time or not, or their level of interest/engagement in the position.

8. Remain professional

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In your role, you may be required to interview friends, so it is very important to remain professional for the duration of the interview and to keep all your questions job-related.

9. Follow-up with the candidate

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Whether it's by email or phone, follow-up to let candidates know whether they got the position or not. This is one more way of extending a professional courtesy and gives the interview process closure.