Structuring the Interview - Hiring Skills

Structuring the Interview
COMM 3420
Interviewing
Chapter 4
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Three parts to an interview
•Opening
•Body
•Close

Before the Interview
The Interview Guide
An outline of topics and subtopics that you
will determine the sequence of questions.
• Topical sequence
• Journalist sequence
• Time sequence
• Space sequence
• Cause-effect sequence
• Problem/solution sequence

Question Sequences
• Tunnel: a series questions that asks
for specific information. It doesn’t
change.
• Funnel: Begins with broad questions
and then the questions become more
restricted.
• Inverted Funnel
– Begins closed and proceeds toward open
questions
– Provides a warm-up time for those
reluctant to talk

Opening the Interview
• Opening
–Sets the tone
–Negative opening = defensive
climate

• Two-step process
1. Establish Rapport
– Creating feelings of goodwill and
trust
– Small talk & Nonverbal
communication
– Be aware of titles & context

2. Orient the other party
– Explain the purpose, length, &
nature of the interview
– Do not assume too much or too
little about the other party
– Give the time frame

• Ways to open
– Purpose statement
– Summarize the problem
– Explain the discovery of a problem
– Offer an incentive/reward
– Request advice or assistance
– Refer to the reference person of the interview
– Refer to your organization
– Give the time frame
– COMBINE THEM!

Nonverbals in Openings
Be aware of:
– Territoriality
• Go where you are directed
• Maintain eye contact
• Follow directions
– Appearance
• Should not be an obstacle.
– Touch
– Handshakes firm, not crushing

The Body of the Interview
• Interview schedules
– Nonscheduled:
• No questions are prepared in
advance.
• Broad information
• Interviewees are reluctant to
participate
• More freedom
• More skill

The Body of the Interview
– Moderately scheduled:
• All major questions with possible
probing questions under each
• Lessens the danger of instant
question creation
• Journalists, medical personnel,
recruiters, lawyers, police, and
insurance investigators

Interview Closing
1. Signals the termination of the
interview but not the
relationship.
2. Can express supportiveness
to enhance the relationship.
3. Summarizes the information
of the interview.

Interview Closing
• Suggestions for closings
– Be sincere
– Don’t rush
– Don’t introduce new topics or ideas
during the closing
– Leave the door open for future contacts

Interview Closing
• Closing Techniques
– Give the reason for closing
– Express appreciation
– Arrange for the next
encounter
– Summarize the interview

Interview Closing
• Closing nonverbally
– Plan the closing as you do
the opening and body of the
interview
– Combine effective nonverbal
and verbal techniques

Interview Closing
• Nonverbal Closing Signals
– Straighten up in your seat
– Lean forward
– Stand up and/or move away
– Cross your legs
– Place your hands on your knees
preparing to get up

Interview Closing
– Break eye contact
– Offer to shake hands
– Smile
– Check your watch

Structuring the Interview - Hiring Skills

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