All good processes begin with some pre-planning and this is particularly true in the selection process. Get crystal clear about what is needed in advance to best prepare for interviews.
The most important preparation is identifying the critical activities for that job and how they should be done — give careful consideration to the traits that will increase the likelihood of an individual’s success in that job. The key is to identify the key traits for each job.
Without careful planning, hiring managers may fall into the “I’ll know it when I see it” trap looking for traits they generally admire in people even if they may be detrimental or counterintuitive for the job. For example, selecting a candidate who is outgoing and comfortable chatting up any topic in the interview may make sense for a sales position. These traits may also be indicative of lacking the focus, attention to detail, and thorough consideration needed for a quality assurance position.
Hiring managers should prepare for interviews by determining in advance the accountabilities and traits critical to the job for which they are interviewing. As interviewers, the likelihood of hiring managers selecting the best candidate for the position increases significantly as does the buy-in and support of the new employee once selected.
Empowered hiring managers are prepared for their interviews and make successful hires.