Recently recruiters have centred on advising employers as much as potential candidates concerning interview technique. A common interview question often involves asking the candidate ‘Give us an example when you…’ to assess the candidate’s skill set and suitability to the role. Recruiters advice centres on this question and its drawbacks, as it often discriminates against candidates who don’t have as much experience as other candidates. But less experience does not always mean less suitable to the role! Often companies may lose out on a candidate that could have been better suited to the role if they focus too much on past positions.

A better question to ask would be ‘What would you do if…?’ and lead the questions towards common everyday situations the candidate would face in the role, and particularly assess their attitude and use of skills to answer the question. By asking these types of questions the employer can give the candidate an opportunity to demonstrate their problem-solving skills and their ability to handle new, role specific situations they may be faced with.

Similarly, it’s important for candidates to listen to employer’s interview feedback. Often, when an employer has two candidates who have similar experience and skill set, who both performed well in an interview, the quality of the candidate’s follow-up message to the interview can often affect the decision. When the follow-up is personalised, perhaps references a conversation held during the interview, it often impresses employers much more. It demonstrates the candidates genuine interest and listening skills, and can show a lot about their personality. Candidate attitude can often have influence on the recruitment process, as companies hope to find individuals that can follow their values and work well within the team.

So – a few more points to leave you with! Employers – remember to not always base your recruitment process solely on experience, often you could miss a candidate that shows the enthusiasm and transferable skills that would suit the role far better. Candidates – make sure you are engaged and memorable during your interview, a follow-up that highlights these aspects will make you much more appealing to your potential employer.

Information sourced from Recruitment Grapevine