Interview - 6 Planning Factors You Should Know About

What is the difference between a conversation and an interview? Conversations can be spontaneous and that is one characteristic that distinguishes interviews from conversations - interviews are scheduled. A second difference between the two is the level of formality. While a conversation may be planned, it is not typically formal.

Conversations usually have a broad goal like an interview, but a formal list of questions is not usually generated in advance and the results may or may not be documented. In contrast, it is known by both parties, regardless of the interview purpose, that the specific goals and objectives are well defined in advance and the results will be documented.

A scheduled interview offers a distinct advantage to both participants over a non-scheduled interview or a conversation, in that they often take less time, are easier to control and conclude with clear results. The interviewee can prepare for the interview as the purpose is communicated up front when the interview is scheduled.

In addition, because there is likely a formal agenda or list of questions and topics to cover, when the interview becomes sidetracked it is easy to steer it back on to course. Further, since formal documentation is one of the characteristics of the interview, it is appropriate for both parties to take some notes, which leads to clear results and efficient follow through.

In contrast, a conversation, which may be spontaneous, can quickly take on a life of its own and may never return to the purpose - or may return far less efficiently having bypassed or sidestepped some important issues along the way.

Whether you are conducting an interview or are the interviewee, it is important to consider how the following factors impact your interview success. Have you considered these planning factors?

The environment: Where will your interview take place? How can you use the environment to enhance or contribute to the success of the interview. For example, when two people sit side by side at a small round-table or a comfortable sofa arrangement, the level of formality is reduced, as compared to having an executive desk between them. The executive desk acts as a barrier to the process and sends a message about the relationship between the two participants and the relative importance of the interview.

The time factor: What time will your interview take place? How long will it last? Interviews generally have a fixed available time which necessitates the need for a schedule and staying on task. Respecting the time of others by communicating the length of the interview in advance will motivate both participants to work toward that common goal efficiently.

The goal: What is the goal you seek as a result of the interview? Defining a goal and putting a plan in place to meet that goal is an essential component to maximize the chances of success. In addition, consider the structure of the interview - how formal should it be?

The questions and topics: What topics do you need to cover and what questions do you need to ask in order to accomplish the goal? If you are on the receiving end of the interview, what topics do you want to address? What questions do you have?

The participants: What do you need to consider about the other person that will help ensure that you accomplish your goal? While some folks like to get down to business without a lot of small talk, others need to warm up a bit through some less formal conversation.

In Summary

No matter which side of the interview you are on, it is important to consider how you can contribute to a successful outcome. Establishing a rapport, defining goals, staying focused, listening, using specific language and speaking with accuracy, requesting clarification when necessary, documenting the results and acting with respect and integrity go a long way toward a successful outcome. How good are your interviewing skills on either side of the desk?

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Aseriah is a senior writer at Shiba Resume and has written over 300 professional, entry-level, and recent graduate resume. His clients have had an incredible successful interview landing rate of 100%. If you are in need of a professional resume writing service you can find his services at http://www.shibaresumes.com