We spend a lot of time helping candidates prepare for interviews…but here is something I find myself saying more and more to clients…are you ready as well?

Because interviews are not a one way thing anymore. The best candidates are quietly assessing you just as much as you are them to see if it will be a good fit. So if you are bringing people in to meet the business, here are a few things worth thinking about:

Be clear
If your team cannot clearly explain the role, what success looks like or where it can lead, don’t expect the candidate to fill in the gaps. That uncertainty puts people off quickly.

Your people are the brand
Whoever meets that candidate is your business in their eyes. Are they engaged and prepared or just trying to squeeze it in between meetings
And honestly…candidates can tell!
It is very obvious when someone is rushing or their mind is elsewhere. Especially when the Apple Watch keeps buzzing and there is are multiple quick glance down mid conversation.

Respect their time
Running late, rearranging last minute or a disorganised interview process sends a message, and not the one you want.

Make it a conversation
The best interviews feel like a two way discussion, not a one sided checklist or tick box exercise.

Sell the bigger picture
People are not just choosing a job. They are choosing where they spend a huge part of their life. Give them something to buy into. Be ready for their questions.
The strongest candidates will ask about culture, leadership and progression. If you are not ready for that, it shows.

At the end of the day, your interview process is your shop window, and the best people have options.

So while you are asking candidates to prepare, make sure your team is doing the same.

It makes more difference than you think!