Interviews and Skills

Interviews form a crucial part of recruitment and aim to assess the skills, knowledge, and personality of the candidate.
The primary goal of conducting interviews is to identify the best-suited candidate for the job.
Interviews provide an opportunity for the employer and the candidate to engage in a two-way communication - assessing suitability for the role and learning more about the organisation.
They also allow companies to check the veracity of information provided in CVs and application forms.
During an interview, employers can assess whether the candidate would fit in the company’s culture.

Face-to-face interviews are traditional, in-person interviews which require strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Telephone interviews focus on the candidate’s ability to articulate responses clearly without the benefit of visual cues. Thus, it requires good listening and verbal communication skills.
In panel interviews, candidates might face multiple interviewers at once. This method tests the ability to manage stress and interact with different personalities.
Competency-based interviews focus on candidates applying their skills and experiences to hypothetical scenarios aligning with the job role. This requires problem-solving skills and demonstrable experience.
Video or virtual interviews are increasingly common and require a level of comfort with relevant technology as well as the usual presentation and communication skills.

Evaluating candidates’ skills and competencies is integral to ensuring they can successfully perform job tasks.
Skill assessment can reveal strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in knowledge that might not be immediately apparent from a candidate’s CV or application.
Detailed skills assessments provide valuable data to guide training and development initiatives once a candidate is employed.
Tools such as aptitude tests, skills tests, work samples or trial tasks can be useful methods of skills assessment during recruitment.
Soft skills, including those relating to communication, teamwork, and problem solving are increasingly recognised as essential in many job roles and can be assessed through interviews or other methods.

Preparation is key to acing interviews. Researching the company, understanding the job role, and preparing answers for likely questions can make a significant difference.
Demonstrating key skills relevant to the job posting throughout the interview process is critical.
Effective listening and communication, an ability to answer questions clearly and succinctly, and a demonstration of enthusiasm for the role and organisation can significantly enhance a candidate’s chances of success.
Providing concrete examples of past achievements related to the job role shows a track record of success and can help an interviewer visualise the candidate in the role.
Following up with a thank you note appreciating the interviewer’s time and reaffirming the candidate’s interest in the position can leave a positive lasting impression.