You're conducting a nerve-wracking candidate interview. How can you balance assertiveness with empathy?

It's a great practice to prepare well ahead of an interview. Some points to consider, 1. Avoid making perceptions after going through the profile: Stay open-minded and be careful of your unconscious biases. 2. Assess the candidate's Potential and Capacity: Prepare questions to evaluate the candidate’s potential and ability to grow. Don't limit yourself to just current competencies. 3. Understand personal Career Goals to understand their motivation: find out what they want from a career at your organization & how it aligns with their long-term objectives. A job can be a game changer for someone (& their family), and as hiring managers, it's important we respect a candidate's time and energy as well as ours by getting the best out of time.

Start by setting a friendly tone and actively listening to the candidate. Clearly explain the interview process and expectations. Ask questions confidently but give the candidate time to respond and express themselves. Show empathy by acknowledging their nerves and offering encouragement.

In addition to understanding the job requirements and the candidate’s background, I believe it is essential to create a comfortable and welcoming interview environment. This involves not only being mindful of your body language and tone but also ensuring that the candidate feels heard and respected throughout the process. Encouraging a two-way dialogue rather than a one-sided interrogation can significantly enhance the interview experience. By fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and openness, we can better assess the candidate’s true potential and fit within the organization. Moreover, providing clear information about the interview process and what to expect can alleviate anxiety and help candidates perform at their best.

In addition to setting clear expectations, I prioritize making the candidate feel comfortable and valued from the moment they walk in. By being approachable and encouraging candidates to express any concerns or ask questions throughout the interview, we can create a more relaxed atmosphere. This not only helps in reducing stress but also promotes an open and honest conversation, allowing us to gain deeper insights into the candidate’s abilities and fit for the role. Clear communication about the interview process and an empathetic approach can significantly enhance the overall interview experience for both parties.

In addition to practicing active listening, I strive to create a supportive environment where candidates feel their insights are genuinely appreciated. By maintaining eye contact and using positive body language, I aim to convey openness and respect. Thoughtful follow-up questions not only help gather more detailed information but also demonstrate my genuine interest in the candidate’s experiences. Providing constructive feedback during the conversation shows that I am engaged and empathetic, reinforcing a sense of mutual respect and understanding throughout the interview. This approach not only enhances the quality of the information gathered but also builds a positive connection with the candidate.

After a difficult question, provide immediate feedback on their approach. If they did well, acknowledge it specifically. If they missed something, explain what you were looking for, and why it’s important. Present challenges as opportunities to demonstrate resilience and growth.

In addition to offering constructive feedback, I emphasize the importance of a growth mindset during the interview process. By highlighting areas where candidates can improve and providing actionable suggestions, I aim to support their professional development. This approach demonstrates that I am committed to their long-term success, not just the immediate hiring decision. Creating a positive and supportive atmosphere encourages candidates to view feedback as an opportunity for growth, fostering a more open and collaborative dialogue. This balance of assertiveness and empathy helps build a foundation of trust and respect, benefiting both the candidate and the organization.

In addition to maintaining a professional demeanor, I focus on creating a respectful and engaging interview environment. By actively listening and responding thoughtfully, I ensure that the candidate feels their input is valued. My tone and body language are carefully managed to convey openness and understanding, helping to ease the candidate’s stress. Keeping the discussion centered on the job and the candidate’s qualifications allows for a productive and respectful dialogue, reinforcing their sense of worth and making the interview process a positive experience for both parties.

Maintain a firm but fair tone throughout the interview, demonstrating that you expect high standards but are also supportive. If the candidate shows signs of stress, reassure them that it's okay to be challenged and that the interview is a learning opportunity

Conducting Competency based interview considering required traits for the role is required. The traits , motives and competency for the role can be identified with specific interview techniques.

Ask tough questions that require critical thinking or stress management, but be clear and concise. If the candidate struggles, allow a moment of silence for them to think. Avoid leading them to the answer but encourage them to talk through their thought process.