HR

Here are a few Dos and Don'ts of interviewing.

DO

  • Give candidates at least 48 hours notice when scheduling interviews.
  • Review interview guide, resume, and job description prior to interview.
  • Provide each interviewer with an interview packet including:
    • Job description
    • Job posting
    • Interviewees’ application & resume
    • Candidate evaluation forms with interview questions and space for notes
  • Create a great experience for the candidate from beginning to end.
  • Have a list of questions pre-planned.
    • Include questions from the approved general question list and position-specific questions.
    • Talk with your Recruiter about the interview questions you would like to use prior to your interviews.
    • Questions should be related to the job duties and the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed for the position.
  • Keep all conversation focused on job-related information.
  • Ask the same questions of all candidates to ensure everyone is treated the same.
  • Ask follow-up questions to explore initial responses and gain more understanding.
  • Allow the candidate the opportunity to share their experiences and abilities.
  • Listen closely.
  • Give the candidate your undivided attention.
  • Take professional notes.
    • Keep in mind that a candidate could request to see copies of notes, so everything you write could be viewed later.
  • Allow time for final questions and statements from the candidate.
  • Let them know your timeline for making a decision. If the timeline takes longer than expected, keep your candidates informed.
  • Thank them for their time.

DON'T

  • Ask questions that would elicit information such as:
    • Race
    • National origin or ancestry
    • Religion
    • Gender identification
    • Sexual orientation
    • Marital or family status
    • Pregnancy
    • Mental or physical disability
    • Genetic information
    • Age
    • Previous compensation
  • Ask personal questions or make unrelated small talk.
    • Instead of asking them “tell me about yourself”, ask them “tell me how your experience has prepared you for this position.”
    • Don’t ask questions about anything that is related to hobbies or personal interests.
  • Ask leading questions that tell the candidate what you’re looking for.
    • You should ask questions that provide this information rather than telling them what you want to hear.
  • Interrupt the candidate when they are answering.
  • Over-sell the position or over-promise.
  • Make up an answer to a question you are unsure of. If a candidate asks a question and you do not have the answer, tell them you will find the information and get back to them.
  • Use jargon or acronyms that a candidate may not be familiar with.
  • Treat candidates differently
    • If you have an applicant you have interviewed for another position, don’t judge them on their previous interview; instead treat them the same as the other applicants in the candidate pool.
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Human Resources Department

HOURS: Monday - Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm

200 West Oak, Suite 3200, Fort Collins, CO 80521
PO Box 1190, Fort Collins, CO 80522
PHONE: (970) 498-5970 | FAX: (970) 498-5980
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