A Winning Interview Format

A systematic format for conducting interviews will help you obtain the needed information from candidates and minimize the possibility of making a mistake. The suggested format for the campus interview is:

Interview Steps	Interviewer Tasks

1. Preparing for the Interview Time frame: 3-4minutes	Review candidate's resume. Identify areas to explore during interview.
TRANSITION: "(Candidate's name)? Good morning, I'm (your name)."
2. Breaking the Ice Time frame: 2-3 minutes	Make the candidate feel comfortable. Set a relaxed tone
TRANSITION: "Let me explain the format for the interview. I would like to ask you some questions to get to know you better, and then I'll give you a chance to ask me questions."
3. Asking Questions/Verifying Information Time frame: 14-17 minutes	Extract job-related information from candidate. Verify unclear items on resume
TRANSITION: "Do you have any questions for me?"
4. Answering Questions/Promoting Company to Qualified Candidates Time Frame: 6-8 minutes	Answer candidate's questions. Promote organization to qualified candidates. Present a realistic picture of what it's like to work at your organization.
TRANSITION: "If you don't have any other questions, I'd like to thank you for your interest."
5. Closing the Interview Time Frame: 1-2 minutes	Discuss next steps in selection process. Bring interview to an end.

6. Evaluating /Recording Information Time Frame: 3-4 minutes	Compare candidate qualifications with job requirements. Record information accurately.

If you're training new recruiters or working with line managers to interview new hires, NACE's Guide to Inteviewing College Students, is a convenient guide that can save you hours of training time and help anyone who is representing your organization gain confidence in his/her interviewing skills. This inexpensive self-study manual covers all the basics, including typical interviewer mistakes, interview format, and how and what to ask-plus legal and illegal questions. The guide also offers practical exercises to reinforce guidance and an interviewing bibliography.

Chapter 1—Getting Started
Chapter 2—A Winning Interview Format
Chapter 3—How and What to Ask
Chapter 4—Putting the Interview on Paper
Chapter 5—Polishing Your Skills

2005. 8-1/2 x11 in. 36 pages. NACE members, $11.95; list price, $14.95 Code: 297100ZZ. (Quantity discounts available.) Order Online Today!

NACE is a founding member of International Network of Graduate Recruitment and Development Associations (INGRADA).


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A Winning Interview Format

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