According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, hiring managers are not pleased with two out of every three new hires—that’s 66 percent of all new hires. That’s a lot! Fortunately, avoiding hiring mistakes is not only possible, it can be easy. You’ve started out right by updating the job description and position requirements, as well as preparing to screen candidates.
In the third and final installment of our blog series on finding top talent and avoiding hiring mistakes, we are discussing the first conversation you’ll have with candidates—the initial phone interview.
Phone Interview Tips for Hiring Managers
- Set expectations. Let the candidate know how much time you have and that you’re talking to a number of candidates. If you run longer, it’s a good sign that you have a strong candidate.
- Keep the interview focused. Remember that you’re looking for specific facts, so know what you’re listening for. Have the list of “must-have’s” next to you.
- Look for certain traits. Even though you have a list of “must-have’s,” you also want to be sure the candidate communicates well, is enthusiastic about the position and the company, and overall, has a positive attitude.
- Write away. While asking your questions, take note of the candidate’s answers so you can remember which candidates said what.
- Ask for questions. At the end of the interview, let the candidate ask you some questions if you have interest in him or her.
- Provide next steps. Regardless of whether or not you’re interested in the candidate, let him or her know what the next steps are.
- Thank the candidate. Never forget that candidates are potential customers, or that they may know someone who might be a potential customer.
By consistently doing your homework about the position and candidates, and spending 10 to 15 minutes in a well-thought-out, structured phone interview, you will save a lot of time in your interview process, yield quality candidates and avoid hiring those not suited for the position.
For more tips on hiring and structuring interviews, register for a free webinar,Key Hiring Tips and Structuring Interviews that Yield Great Information, which will be held on March 20, 2014.
