If you have experience as an interviewer, you will already know that finding the “perfect” candidate is rare.

Adopting a systemic approach will help you to set the scene for a two-way, balanced conversation, and find out if your interviewee is the “right” fit and vice versa.

6 interviewer tips to help you choose your “perfect” candidate:

1. Create the space so you both feel at ease. People will feel varying degrees of nerves. Helping them feel at ease will lead to honest responses that truly reflect their character, skill set and experience.As an interviewer, give yourself three minutes to get present. If it helps remind yourself of two values that will help you creating the space for a great interview.
2. Find out what they appreciate about the company. How does it align with their goals? Finding somebody who is genuinely passionate about your product or service can seem like gold dust. Bear in mind that there are other factors that can also lead to fulfilment and contribution. These include wanting to become a part of a growing company, earning commission, or career development. Which of these factors are important for success within the roleShare a short story of what you appreciate about the company and your role.
3. Find out how they approach conflict, to ensure there is alignment with your team’s existing culture. Invite them to share examples of how they approach an issue, or how they react if they don’t agree with another team member. Do they prioritise communication? Are they willing to adjust how they communicate to work effectively with the team? Are they willing to see other perspectives?
4. Be aware of your biases. Sometimes we know in our gut if someone isn’t the “right” fit. Question where that judgment is coming from. We may consider ourselves to be open to all applicants, but background, origin, race, gender or even name can contribute to what you consider to be your “gut” feeling. Acknowledge that! Focus on what will serve the company and the role. Awareness is a gift.
5. See value in diversity. It’s important that your candidate is on a similar wavelength to your team to be able to work effectively. But do they represent a view which is different? And will that benefit the team? Diversity when it comes to background, experience, approach, mindset, strengths, and skills will contribute to the success and wellbeing of the team.
6. Clear up any confusion about the role. First, ensure you are clear on the essential skills. Are there any skills in the job description which aren’t deal breakers if they don’t have them? Make sure you provide as much clarity as possible to minimise differing expectations. Your candidate may also have skills that you didn’t consider, that could add a lot to your team.

These Relationship Systems inspired interviewer tips will help you to welcome your “perfect” candidate.

Find out more about Relationship Systems Thinking.