Interviewing

3. The Interview

3.1 Start by welcoming the candidate.

• Put the candidate at ease.
• Introduce the other interviewers.Explain their roles and their contributions to the interview.
• Outline the structure of the interview.

3.2 Verify information.

Ask questions to check information provided on the CV or application form.

• Probe any gaps in the candidate's career.
• Ask for details on levels of responsibility, and costs and sizes of projects.Find out who else worked with the candidate on these projects.
• Ask about the candidate's skills, and seek recent examples of how the candidate has used them at work.

3.3 Explore the candidate's potential.

Build on the information in the CV and the responses already given.

Ask candidates to:

• Identify their main strengths and most important experiences.
• Discuss the skills they need to develop.
• Outline how they will add value to the company if they get the job.

3.4 Provide information to the candidate.

• Give more detail on the scope of the job and your expectations.
• Invite questions on the nature of the job, terms and conditions, and the company.
• Ask candidates if they have any comments to make or if there is anything else they wish to say.
• Be prepared to explain to the candidate why you asked a particular question.

3.5 Bring the interview to an end.

• Establish whether or not the candidate is still interested.
• Confirm that referees may be contacted.
• Tell the candidate how and when the decision will be made.
• Check you have accurate contact details.