Finding the best candidate is somewhat like a quest for the Holy Grail; it requires diligence, intuition, and some good fortune. It is this adventurous spirit combined with precision and keen observation that separates the proficient interview panel from the lacklustre one.
So, here’s a guide for the panel willing to add a splash of humour and adeptness to the interview process.
Suit Up – Appearance Matters:
Appearances aren’t everything, but they certainly matter. Dressing well showcases the professionalism and the standards of the organisation. The garb we choose is our visual resume, so make it count. It’s about being the Captain America of first impressions, without the shield.
Becoming a Human Polygraph:
Examine subtleties in behaviour and responses to unravel the layers of the candidate. It’s about being the Sherlock of the panel, deducing truths from the unsaid and unseen. Be observant but also considerate; not every candidate is a practiced orator…. and most are nervous.
The Probing Wizard:
Craft your questions. Make them open-ended and precise. Be consistent with the questions for each interview. As the Gandalf of the panel, let your questions be the staff that lights up the candidate’s past experiences, future visions, and present competencies. Please, please, please stay away from the outdated and overused, like the dreaded “What’s your greatest weakness?”
Making the Most of Awkward Silences:
Awkward silences are inevitable. Instead of shuffling papers or checking your watch, use this time to radiate wisdom and contemplation. Maybe even throw in a sage nod. It’s all about the aura. And if the awkward space is filled by the guest providing more information, all the better.
The Art of ‘Aggressive Listening’:
While the interviewee is speaking, maintain eye contact, smile, and nod sagely from time to time. Listen as if they’re giving you the secret formula to turn tin into gold. Resist the urge to doodle your next vacation plans.
‘Empathito’ – The Empathy Spell:
Smiling and eye contact will provide an environment that is as comforting as it is professional. Empathy is your wand, and with a swish and a flick, you create a realm where candidates feel valued and understood. It’s not an interrogation room but a space to discover mutual fits.
Time Keeper Extraordinaire:
The essence of time is golden, and adhering to it is paramount. Join the conversation with finesse and precision, avoiding the unnecessary meanders. While extra probing questions are vital, don’t go rogue by adding your own favourite questions. It’s about striking the balance between a detailed exploration and a succinct conversation. If you are the Chair and the questions and answers start resembling War and Peace, it’s time to rein them in!
Humour: Your Secret Weapon:
Injecting well-timed, appropriate humour can be the cherry on the cake. It relaxes the environment and unveils the more genuine sides of people. But, it’s about finesse and appropriateness; humour can be a breeze, or it can be a storm, use it wisely!
The Aftermath – Debrief with Panache:
Once all the candidates have exited the stage, it’s time for the curtain call, a discussion that is as enlightening as it is decisive. It’s a blend of perspectives, a cocktail of insights. Every differing opinion is a potential treasure trove of insights; it’s about sifting the gold from the sand. Have your say and let others have theirs. Contrary opinion is very welcome.
Feedback Loop de Loop:
The journey doesn’t end with a yes or no; it’s also about wrapping it up with grace and learning. When delivering feedback, it’s about being the Dumbledore, wise and kind. It’s about constructive feedback wrapped in encouragement and hope.
Continual Learning and Adaptation:
Finally, like Batman continually updates his gadgets, keep enhancing your interviewing skills. It’s a journey of constant learning and adaptation. Every interview is a new chapter, a fresh learning curve, a novel experience, adding to your repertoire of skills and insights. Make sure you take some personal time to reflect.
Conclusion:
In the intricate dance of interviews, being an adept, humorous, and thoughtful is about balancing scrutiny with empathy, precision with fluidity; and seriousness with humour. It’s about creating a space where potentials are revealed, personalities are uncovered, and mutual growth is envisioned. So, channel your inner superhero, sprinkle in your distinctive humour, and let the interview adventures begin!