Structured Interviews

In order to hire the most qualified applicant, the interviewer must understand how to conduct effective interviews. It is important to develop well-worded questions, use follow-up questions to clarify and get more detail, take good notes, and control the pace of the interview.

Good interviewing begins with a pre-planned agenda. It helps the interviewer to know in advance what to ask the applicant; keep the interview process on track and generally provides information needed to make the hiring decision. View sample interview questions.

Because all applicants are treated consistently, it also is important documentation to support non-discrimination in hiring and selection.

• Use the qualities already identified as most important for someone in the position and design questions that can assess whether the candidate possesses these traits.
• Provide each interviewer with an interview packet including:
  • Job description
  • Job posting
  • Interviewees’ application & resume
  • Interview questions with space for notes