Hiring staff can be daunting if you have never done it before. Follow these simple tips if you are a new leader and want to recruit the best team.

Observe First

• Before you start interviewing, join other interviews with experienced colleagues as a silent observer. Watch how they run the interview and note down their techniques.
• This will give you valuable insights into the process and boost your own confidence and effectiveness when your turn comes.

Invest in Training

• Formal interview training provides real-life scenarios that teach you how to ask insightful questions and how to evaluate candidates objectively.
• Ask your manager to send you on a training course so you can be as effective as possible.

Test your Questions

• Prepare your questions in advance and design them for the task at hand.
• Your questions should determine if each candidate is the right fit for your team and the organisation. Test them with your colleagues to ensure they uncover each candidate’s true potential.

Seek Feedback

• Invite your peers to sit in on your interviews and comment on your performance.
• Embrace this feedback as a tool for continuous learning and growth.

Leverage Agencies

• Recruitment agencies can offer advice on conducting interviews. This can include how you performed, the general structure of the interview, and the questions asked.
• At Momentum Search, we are happy to sit in on interviews and help you get the most out of your questions.

Understand your Company

• Make sure you have a clear understanding of what you are offering beyond the job description.
• Be clear about the Employee Value Proposition (EVP) and company culture and why the candidate should join your team.

Cultural Add

• Focus on the “cultural add” rather than just the cultural fit. What will the candidate add to our company culture? Research and understand how to assess culture during interviews, and ensure that your process supports this goal.

Answer Questions

• Candidates will have questions about you and the organisation. Be prepared to discuss your role, the organisation’s mission and values, as well as future goals and plans on the horizon.

Showcase Yourself

• Candidates are evaluating you as much as you are evaluating them, so bring the best version of yourself to every interview. Sell yourself and your team enthusiastically and authentically to attract top talent.

Manage Expectations

• Clearly communicate the stages and timelines of your recruitment process. Transparency helps manage expectations and reduce anxiety for candidates.
• Apply the same principle when working with agencies.

Prepare for Challenges

• It’s not always plain sailing, and it’s not always easy. Be ready to navigate obstacles and remain adaptable.

Conclusion

These tips will help you develop the skills and confidence needed as a new leader to conduct successful interviews and build strong, high-performing teams.

To find out more, email Alan Herrity, Director, Momentum Search and Selection.