How NOT to host an interview

I just got back from an interview this morning and realized within a matter of moments that it wasn't for me. Believe me, I'm all for giving people the benefit of the doubt but I really believe that company's need to know how to make the opportunity to work for them irresistable. I want to work for a company that is well presented, offers interesting opportunities and fuels my creativity. So, while I was sitting in the waiting room pondering my existence, I came up with a few thing employers shouldn't do if they want to find high quality employees and a maybe a few clues to look out for for the unsuspecting jobseeker.

1. Office space does not equal pig stye storage area:


Unless your dream job is to be a traveling salesman, I think it's safe to assume that you will be spending a lot of time in the office. In said work area, you will have to function tirelessly, fight off unwanted stress, channel creativity and create solutions. Unfortunately I believe it is beyond challenging if not virtually impossible to do so with perfectly functional rooms and corridors strewn with countless spare parts that can be likened to what computers would throw up, if they could. It doesn't give a very good first impression, on the contrary, makes one wonder if this is a sign of how the company does business - carelessly and disorganized.

2. Do not be late for the appointment:


It is common belief that this applies to both employer and potential employee however I've come to observe otherwise. Few companies keep to pre-scheduled appointments with potential employees. This is quite a shame as we all know that leading by example is the best way to lead. A lack in punctuality could mean the inability to to prioritize or juggle tasks effectively.

3. Do not answer your phone while interviewing me.


This is a huge No-no. It is simply common courtesy especially when a potential employee has been alloted a short period of your time, it is only fair that they receive your undivided attention. Failing to do so often results in people feeling unappreciated, worthless and therefore resentful.

4. Do not go for more than an hour.


An interview is meant to be an opportunity for both parties to meet, discuss the job on offer and figure out if the collaboration is meant to be. Discussing these details shouldn't take more than an hour as that leaves the chance to speak off topic wide open. A clearly structured meeting makes it possible to ascertain all the necessary information in the shortest period of time.

5. Do not ramble...


There is much information to be gained from an initial meeting. So, to make this easily digestible employers review CVs while chatting to applicants. In an ideal world, a similar CV-like document about the company would be given so that jobseekers can also understand or ask questions about the organization. It is important to remember that delving into an in-depth recount of the company's 10 year history is highly unnecessary. Clear, concise information is key.

6. Have some manners, please!


It is important to remain polite and courteous at all time. It isn't nice to read and snigger at a potential employee's CV in front of them, or look at their clothes and mumble something under your breath or inform them that they are not your first choice. The fact that you are taking the time to interview them surely means they possess some talent. Therefore, it is pointless to belittle or demean them when they are already anxious and wanting so much to impress you. Being gracious, humble and understanding is a skill for life.

7. Do not compromise my standards.


It is vital to be clear on the company's values and standards. Only when an employee knows of what is being asked of them can they excel and achieve. However, in the unlikely event that they uphold higher standards than the company, it is safe to assume that convincing them otherwise is unhelpful. Instead it should be viewed as an opportunity to utilize their abilities to raise the company's standards and obtain a competitive edge.

8. Sell the job to me.


This doesn't mean misrepresenting the job. On the contrary, it is speaking of the challenges while highlighting the rewards and opportunities. It is painting a picture of the possibilities. Telling of the countless long days with no breaks or overtime isn't a unique selling feature. However, if a company feels that due to previous experience or high turnover that this is absolutely necessary information to impart, it may be time to review the their priorities, values and work ethics. It is a known fact that companies that take care and care for the well-being of their employees get a happy and highly effective crew in return.

9. Do not burn bridges.


From the sea of people interviewed, there will only be one or two selected to join a company. However, every interviewed individual will take with them an idea of what the company represents. It is a small world out there, so make it a positive one. Word of mouth is a terribly powerful thing; amazingly helpful or thoroughly damaging. After all, six degrees of separation is all that stands between someone worthwhile and whether your company is worth dealing with.

10. Do what you say and say what you do.


This is a simple promise but a hard act to follow. If parameters are created, for instance, shortlisted candidates will be notified in two days, then it is essential that they are contacted within that time frame. Failing to do so, they should still be informed of the delay. It is the little things that make a company stand out in an ocean of faceless Capitalism.

Have I missed anything? Feel free to leave me a comment.

P/s Images taken from Google Images. :)

xoxo
Miss Deb