by Stephen Fortier

Created on: May 27, 2008

The interview process for a posted position is one of the most important aspects of building and maintaining a successful business. It is an understatement to say that a company is only as good as its employees. There are many things to look for during that first interview that will assist you in deciding who to invite back for a second interview.

First impressions go a long way! First and foremost, did the applicant arrive on time? A possible future employee walking in five minutes late without a phone call ends the interview for me immediately. Also, if a prospective employee comes to an interview dressed in neat and professional attire they have passed the first "test". An interviewee should always, always dress for success. I have actually ended an interview before it started because an applicant showed up for the interview either wearing shorts, wearing improper footwear, or wearing a hat. On the same note, the interviewer must always dress appropriately when an interview is scheduled. During those first moments you should just be yourself. Treat the applicant as though you will be working with this person for the next 20 years. Try to make the applicant as comfortable as you can as quick as you can. Never forget what you felt like when you were interviewing for your current job. The applicant is naturally going to be nervous and apprehensive. The sooner you can get them to relax and open up, the more useful information you will be able to obtain throughout the interview.

Secondly, body language can tell you quite a bit without the applicant saying a word. I am a big proponent of eye contact. The applicant should make eye contact when speaking to you as well as when you are speaking to them. If he or she does not, this may be a sign that they have trouble being assertive, it may be a sign that they lack confidence, or it may be a sign that they have communication issues. While it is important for the applicant to make eye contact when they are communicating with you, it is absolutely imperative that you maintain eye contact when answering any questions they may have or when supplying the applicant with a job description. This may subconsciously tell the interviewee you are not sure of your answers or that you are not sure of the duties he or she will be performing. Arms folded or hands in the pockets are another deal breaker for me. Some hiring managers may or may not pay attention to these signs but I feel I have been very successful in the past selecting

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