How to Open and Close Hiring Interviews

  Interviews are a critical part of recruiting new employees. While the content of the interview is important, opening and closing the interview are also important aspects of the recruitment process. 

Opening interviews 

1. Welcome interviewees with a warm smile and a firm handshake. Introduce yourself and the rest of the interview panel. 
2. Begin the interview by describing the agenda and letting the interviewee know how much time you expect the session to run. “First, we would like to learn more about you, then we will discuss the position and tell you more about the company.” Letting candidates know how much time they are allocated will assure them that they will have their opportunity to present themselves and also time to ask any questions. 
3. Avoid making a judgement too early in the interview. Premature judgment will display your inability to listen and to be objective. 

 Closing interviews 

1. Allow the candidate to ask questions. Listen carefully as this will give you a great deal of information on how prepared the candidate was and the interest level in the job role offered. 
2. End the interview on a good note. Thank the candidate for their time and repeat your commitment to follow-up. Walk the applicant out to the reception area or lift lobby area. This signals the end of the interview.