Interviewers common Mistakes
In Preparing for the interview, it is helpful to be aware of some of the most common errors that
interviewers frequently make.
- Talking Too Much
Studies indicate that most interviewers talk 50% or more of the time during an interview. An interview that is dominated by the interviewer fails to accomplish the most crucial purpose of the interview-to
get information from the applicant. An effective interviewer will conduct the interview so that he or she spends only about 20% of the time talking and the applicant spends 80% of the time talking.
- Telegraphing the desired response.
Interviewers often lead or help the candidate get the “right answer” by telegraphing the answer that they want to hear. For example, the interviewer says, “How do you feel about working on teams ? We
have a very strong work ethic around here that values teamwork.” Now, what would you say to this ? “No, I think teams are a lousy idea!” Make sure that your questions are straightforward and do not telegraph the desired response.
- Failing to know job requirements.
You cannot conduct an effective interview without first knowing the specific job requirements. This is where effective preparation pays off. Take the time to conduct a thorough job analysis that will clarify specific job duties, responsibilities, skills, knowledge and abilities.
- Jumping to Conclusions.
Interviewers often make the mistake of making quick judgments and jumping to conclusions before they have enough information to make a sound decision. If the applicant says one thing that does not
fit with what you are looking for, it does not mean that they are not the right person for the job. On the other hand, if an applicant says something that you are very impressed with, this should not be the single contributor to your decision to offer the job.
- Reacting to the “Halo” effect.
This common mistake is made when the interviewer happens will just “hit it off” with someone. This is when that this applicant would be “perfect” for the job. Beware, you may be under the halo effect. You have put a “halo” over the head of the applicant. He or she can do no wrong-even though he or she may be wrong for the job.
- Being disorganized.
Interviewers who do not take a systematic approach to the interview will be disorganized and may lose valuable time to get the information they need. Effective interviewers take an organized approach and plan out the interview sequence. This preplanned structure ensures that the interviewer will be able to
cover what is needed to make the best possible selection determination.
