Who is Interviewing Who? 

Talking to clients and their prospective employees allows me to understand the thought processes around interviews.  One of the most common misconceptions some clients can have, is forgetting the person in front of them is interviewing them too, and the candidate forgets to interview the prospective employer.  This is a mistake. 

Often there are two interviews and in some cases three or more.  The first interview is the most crucial as it provides the opportunity to understand each party, their needs, culture fit and ability to do the role.  That one hour timeslot needs to be taken seriously and by this, I mean prepared for.  This involves having a full understanding of the person you are interviewing.  What do I mean? Take a look at this list: 

Interviewer Checklist: 

• Have I read their CV and are aware of their experience? 

• Do I know how to pronounce their name correctly? 

• Are the right people attending the interview? 

• Do I have a list of questions to ask? 

• Am I aware of what the interviewee is looking for in an employer? 

• Do I know if they are interviewing elsewhere and what their timeframe is for making decisions? 

• Am I prepared to show an interest in this person beyond their work experience? 

• Will I be able to provide feedback after the interview in a timely fashion? 

• Am I prepared to look beyond nerves? 

• Don’t be quick to make judgements within the first 5 minutes 

• Am I prepared to be asked questions about my company culture, what a career pathway looks like, what support systems are in place through to what company social activities occur?  

Interviewee Checklist: 

• Am I genuinely interested in looking for a new job or “just curious”?  It’s important to understand the difference and why you are attending

• Do I have an understanding of the company I’m interviewing with – what do they do and what types of projects do they conduct? 

• Who is interviewing me, and what is their position in the company? 

• Have I allowed enough time to get to the interview? 

• Do I have at least two key questions to ask at the interview? 

• Are there items I could take to interview to help me present my capabilities to the best of my ability 

• Am I prepared to be asked questions regarding my ability, and how I will answer these questions? 

• Am I aware of what my market salary?   

• Do I have at least two referees prepared in case an offer is made to me? 

I could say that interviews are even more important now than ever however they are ALWAYS important no matter what market we are in.  This is your first chance to see if this person or company is right for you, don’t waste it.  Every interview should be viewed as an opportunity.