Prepare thoroughly, then deviate slightly from the script to allow for organic discussion. Use open-ended questions, pause for candidate responses, and explore relevant tangents. Encourage storytelling and examples, asking follow-up questions like "Can you elaborate?" or "How did that impact your work?" Active listening and genuine interest will create a relaxed atmosphere, making the conversation feel more natural. Additional Tips: - Use conversational language, avoiding jargon. - Show genuine curiosity and enthusiasm. - Take notes to reference later. By doing so, you: - Gather valuable insights - Build rapport with the candidate - Create a comfortable atmosphere - Assess communication skills - Make informed hiring decisions

Some interviewers are very rigid. Some are very unstructured. I’m not sure which is harder! But most important is knowing yourself and being clear in who you are and what you offer, so regardless of the interview style, you can speak about yourself. ⭐️

To keep the conversation natural during a rigidly scripted interview, try these strategies: - Listen Actively: Pay close attention to the interviewer’s questions and comments. This will help you respond thoughtfully and engage more fully. - Add Personal Touches: When answering make your responses more relatable and less mechanical. - Ask Follow-up Questions: This shows your interest and can lead to a more dynamic conversation. - Be Yourself: Let your personality shine through. - Prepare for Common Questions: Anticipate the scripted questions and think of ways to deliver your answers with a unique perspective.

1️⃣ Active Listening: Pay close attention to the candidate's responses, allowing for follow-up questions that may diverge from the script. 2️⃣ Personal Touch: Share relevant anecdotes or experiences to create a more relaxed atmosphere. 3️⃣ Flexibility: Adapt the script based on the flow of conversation, prioritizing meaningful dialogue over strict adherence. 4️⃣ Open-Ended Questions: Use questions that invite elaboration, encouraging candidates to express their thoughts more freely. 5️⃣ Non-Verbal Cues: Use body language and eye contact to show engagement and encourage openness.

One way to shine is to have stories queued up that show your experience with the core competencies of the role. During an interview, you’re aiming to sell yourself and as the saying goes “facts will tell, but stories will sell”. Most people that I interview have a great opportunity to stand out when it comes time to ask questions they have prepared for me. The more thoughtful, the questions the better. Doing homework on the company and on me as the interviewer can offer insights to boost your chance for success.

To keep the conversation natural, I’d use the script as a guide rather than a strict sequence, allowing for flexibility to explore relevant points the candidate brings up. I’d listen actively and ask follow-up questions based on their responses, helping the conversation feel more like an engaging dialogue than a checklist. This way, I can cover essential points while maintaining a genuine and fluid interaction.

Want an easy and great way to gauge how rigid your interview process is? Interview candidates for a recruiting, HR, or talent acquisition role. Those candidates will quickly feel if your process is too scripted and uncomfortable. If they seem uneasy, it’s a clear sign to rethink your approach! Try open-ended questions to keep the conversation flowing naturally. Remember, interviews should be a two-way street.