Unfortunately, the interview is also a time for the candidate to screen potential employers. If you are a QUALITY organization looking for QUALITY employees, perhaps you should pay heed to these guidelines:
- Give the candidate a warning to show up early to fill out an application, so they're not extending past their interview appointment.
- Offer a beverage upon arrival. Even though I would decline the offer, it is polite to offer something.
- Receptionists should refrain from lengthy personal phone conversations in the reception area. I didn't need to hear all those juicy details, even though it was mildly more entertaining than doodling while I waited.
- Don't make a candidate wait 40 minutes.
- When you do come out to lead them back, it is customary to at least fake a warm greeting, shake hands, make some light conversation.
- Don't treat a candidate like a war criminal that you need to interrogate. I'm a professional interviewing for a professional position at your organization. You should attempt to act professionally as well.
- Try working on your affect and facial expressions. It is customary to half-smile, nod, express understanding, feign interest, or a combination of these. It is unnerving to candidates when interviewers have a blank, expressionless and almost angry stare and demeanor. Yeah, why the hell would I want to work for YOU?
- Ask intelligent questions to encourage a discussion.
- When I ask you questions, please don't answer in a smart ass way. I didn't even have to ask them to describe their corporate culture - I could tell.
- After making me wait 40 minutes, the interview should last at least past 10 minutes.
- Don't short-change a candidate on parking validation.
P.S. Beware of job postings on Craigslist. No, it wasn't for a masseuse position! lol.
