Hiring experts can be an emotionally daunting task. Here’s how to make a great impression.
Chances are, if you’re in technical recruitment, you’re going to have to interview people who know more about their profession than you do. A LinkedIn report found that 83% of job candidates surveyed asserted that a negative job interview experience can turn candidates off from a job or company. So, what’s it take to make the uber-savvy feel like they’ve found a home?
5 tips on interviewing experts in their field
1. Ignore your ego… The protection of fragile egos has led to more mediocracy than the world ever needed. If the thought of interviewing someone more knowledgeable, perhaps even smarter, than you conjures up insecurity, remember what Richard Branson said: “It’s all about finding and hiring people smarter than you. Getting them to join your business. And giving them good work.”
2. …And groom theirs. Your top recruit might be getting more inquiries than you think – that means you need to stand out. So, flatter them! Of course, don’t overdo it – but don’t be shy about complimenting them. The key is to do it with confidence – let them know you’re impressed, but not intimidated. Also, a common complaint by computer programmers and IT talent are agendas set by management with little or no regard for their expertise, which in turn leads to unrealistic expectations. Therefore, it’s perfectly acceptable to share that they’ll know more about what they’re doing than you do (after all, that is why you’re hiring them, right?).
3. Keep the interviews minimal. Scientist, coders, engineers – they’re busy and rational. It’s okay to get right to the point. According to iCrunchData.com, scheduling one interview with a group of potential colleagues relevant to the position is preferable than individual meetings. This makes the interview much more productive – more questions can be asked and answered on both ends, plus it grants your team an inclusive role in the process, which leads to better decisions.
4. Be genuine. Try to treat the interview as an opportunity to get to know each other rather than a talent show. Be personable – ask about their career goals, discuss how they fit in with the position and your company – and don’t forget to smile!
5. Be mindful. Unless you simply just want to briefly confirm a detail from their resume or prior communication, avoid revisiting anything you’ve already discussed. Make the conversation as productive as possible, stay on point, and schedule enough time for them to ask questions.
Setting the stage
Professionalism is crucial to attracting top-tier talent in any field, especially in-demand skills such as engineering and IT – that’s where professional recruiting agencies come in handy. Mankuta | Gallagher has all the tools you need to identify and impress the best in your industry.
For more information, connect with one of our knowledgeable recruiters today.