Over the last several months we used our newsletter to give you insightful tips on the hiring process. We have talked about the value of closely looking at references and reviewing resumes. This month we will talk about the interview. This can be the most time consuming and difficult task for many employers to complete. The average schedule of a school executive does not allow for multiple hours to talk with a candidate or candidates. However, giving time and attention to the interview is essential. Clear your schedule and your mind. This is an opportunity that has enormous value when you are making such an important investment in your company’s future. Here are a few tips:
Allow time to talk with the candidate one-on-one and then possibly also time to meet with other managers. Having more than one person’s perspective is very helpful.
Include some open-ended questions that give you an opportunity to evaluate how the candidate can think on his/her feet. These questions can also provide you with a chance to evaluate an individual’s communication and articulation skills. If the individual is going to be an effective leader they must be a good communicator.
Leave some time before the interview to look at the resume. Prepare questions that relate directly to this person’s background and this position. Don’t just go in with a generic list of questions. Each position requires unique skills.
Think beforehand about what the next step might be. If this person is someone that you would like to pursue, how will you proceed? Be prepared to explain the process to the individual. For example, is it necessary for them to have an interview at the corporate office, do they need to meet other managers. If you are not interested in the candidate, what is the time frame that you can let the individual know? Handling things in an organized and professional manner reflects well on you and your organization.
Think carefully about how you might answer some of the hard questions like salary? A career driven individual is going to want to know what they can expect. You may not be ready to answer this question but you at least need to have a thoughtful response for the candidate.
Lastly, provide whatever literature or materials on the company that you have available. This will allow the individual to get a better sense of the organization.
