How Interviews Create a Lasting Impression and Attract a Strong Candidate Pool

When anticipating a new job, it's just as important for the applicant to be mindful of the organization they are about to commit their time to, as it is for the hiring team. Unfortunately, job seekers often feel pressured to accept whatever conditions are presented to them, making the process feel undignified.?

This is not about you being "difficult"; it's about understanding what this organization and its culture truly represents. If the employer is uncomfortable by your questions, it might be a sign they do not embrace space for thought leaders, don't empower their employees to use their voices or fail to respect diverse perspectives. That might not be a culture you want to find yourself in any way.?

Employers, while there may be some authority imbalance, during the interviewing process it is just as critical to create a welcoming environment where the applicant can feel valued and respected inside your company. Often, employers underestimate the impression of workplace culture, and that 1 interaction may influence how the candidate perceives your organization and their future with that company. Greeting a potential employee with the mannerisms and the attitude you want to attract, will save your organization time & money in the long run.

Here are a few simple yet impactful ways to show applicants they matter:

Be Punctual or Offer an Explanation for any delay

This communicates that you respect everyone's time and energy for this event and reflects your intentions are good & well.

Show up Presentable (like you would for a Photo or a Selfie)

When you make the effort to groom, it not only demonstrates you value yourself but it reassures the applicant this employer values a healthy physical and mental wellbeing.

Smile often and 'Ask about their day' or 'How they're doing'

A smile can go a long way! It's even better if you show genuine interest in them rather than focusing only on standardized interview questions.

Don't hesitate to talk about Personal Things or Things you have in Common

Relationships are often built on shared personal experiences. Bonus if there's something in common you each can potentially thrive on!

Encourage Questions During and After the Interview

Allowing grace for questions shows they can access you for support and you respect their unique way of processing information.

Interviews can be terrifying on both sides, but they do not have to be! Don't let the unspoken rules of intimidating interviews keep you from snatching that A-plus employee who can make your workplace shine!

?P.S. Even if that applicant doesn’t get selected for the position, they’ll likely feel more inclined to reapply because the interview experience was so positive!

JenDina Bowers ?????? , MPAL

Chief Social Impact Partner- Sky Infiniti