Question

Write a note on guidelines for conducting effective interviews.

Answer 1

To be effective, an interview should be well-planned and properly conducted. Some guidelines for conducting an interview are given below.

1. Selection of Interviewers: The interviewers must be knowledgeable and experienced. They should understand the requirements of the vacancy to be filled, the standards expected of candidates, and the technique of conducting interviews. 
2. Information about Candidates: The interviewer should get detailed information about the candidates before conducting the interview. Such information relates to the background, educational qualifications, work experience, etc. This information can be obtained from application form, preliminary interview and tests.
3. Preparation for Interview: The type of information to be obtained, the questions to be asked, the time to be given to each candidate, etc., should be decided in advance unless the interview is unstructured.
4. Putting the Candidate at Ease: The interviewer should make the candidate comfortable. He should start asking questions after the candidate feels at ease. This will help in judging correctly the knowledge and understanding of the candidate.
5. Drawing the Best: The attempt of the interviewer should be to obtain the best possible information from the candidate. He should tackle each candidate according to his personality traits, attitude and communication skills.