Interviewing Strategies for Success: Insights from Platinum Resourcing
Over years of dedicated recruitment service, we at Platinum Resourcing have refined our approach to interviews, witnessing firsthand the transformational impact they have on both companies and candidates. While we are not an HR agency, our unique vantage point allows us to share strategies that have led to countless successful placements without being condescending or stating the obvious. Here’s how to elevate your interview process, based on facts, statistics, and the nuanced understanding we’ve developed in the UK job market.
Prepare Thoroughly and Purposefully
A well-prepared interview is a strong predictor of successful hiring. Statistics show that structured interviews are predictive of job performance 62% of the time, compared to only 20% for unstructured ones. Begin by reviewing the candidate’s CV in detail, noting specific areas you wish to explore further. At Platinum Resourcing, we advise creating a mix of questions that assess both technical abilities and soft skills.
Establish a Comfortable Environment
An interview is a two-way street. While the employer assesses the candidate, the candidate similarly evaluates the company. A study by the Corporate Executive Board found that candidates who rated their interview experience highly were 38% more likely to accept a job offer. Aim to make the candidate feel at ease, as this can lead to more open and authentic conversations.
Use Behavioural Interview Techniques
The adage “past behaviour is the best predictor of future performance” holds true in recruitment. Behavioural interview questions prompt candidates to share real-life examples of how they handled work situations. These responses can be incredibly telling and provide a depth of insight that hypothetical scenarios cannot.
Listen Actively and Read Between the Lines
Active listening is critical. It involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and then remembering what the candidate says. It’s a skill that only 45% of the time is spent doing by average listeners. Pay attention not only to what is said but also to what may be left unsaid. Non-verbal cues can often reveal a candidate’s genuine enthusiasm or reservations about the role.
Keep an Eye Out for Cultural Fit
While skills and experience are quantifiable, cultural fit is more nuanced but no less critical. As per Deloitte, 88% of employees believe a distinct workplace culture is important to business success. Ask questions that help understand if the candidate’s values align with your company ethos. Remember, skills can be taught, but a person’s fundamental beliefs and behaviours are often ingrained.
Provide Clear, Constructive Feedback
Whether a candidate is successful or not, providing feedback reflects well on your company’s brand and helps maintain a positive relationship with potential talent. A survey by Glassdoor noted that 69% of job seekers are more likely to apply to a company that manages its employer brand by responding to reviews, updating their profile, and sharing updates on the culture and work environment.
Reflect and Follow-Up Promptly
Post-interview, take the time to reflect on the candidate’s responses and the impression they left. A timely follow-up is key. According to the UK’s Institute of Student Employers, the best practice is to provide feedback within a week of the interview. This helps keep the candidate engaged and improves their experience, irrespective of the outcome.
Conclusion
At Platinum Resourcing, we leverage our extensive recruitment experience to help employers conduct interviews that are both effective and insightful. Remember, a successful interview can serve as a powerful tool in building your team and your company’s future. Implementing these strategies will ensure that the process is as productive for you as it is for the candidates you seek to engage.
