Pre-Interview

Definition

The pre-interview refers to the phase that occurs before the actual interview takes place, where both the interviewer and interviewee prepare for the engagement. This stage is crucial as it sets the groundwork for a successful interaction, involving the development of questions, research on the subject or individual being interviewed, and establishing a clear purpose and goals for the interview itself.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The pre-interview phase allows the interviewer to tailor their questions based on background research, increasing the likelihood of gathering valuable insights.
2. During this stage, setting clear objectives helps guide the conversation and keeps it focused on relevant topics.
3. Effective pre-interview preparation can help reduce anxiety for both parties by fostering confidence in their roles during the interview.
4. A well-planned pre-interview process can significantly enhance the quality of information gathered, leading to more informative discussions.
5. Time spent in pre-interview activities is often seen as an investment that pays off during the actual interview by creating a smoother flow.

Review Questions

• How does the pre-interview process contribute to the overall effectiveness of an interview?
  • The pre-interview process enhances effectiveness by allowing the interviewer to prepare tailored questions based on research about the interviewee or topic. This preparation leads to a more structured conversation where important issues can be addressed. It also helps both parties feel more at ease, making it easier to engage in open dialogue and achieve the intended objectives.
• In what ways can poor pre-interview preparation impact the outcome of an interview?
  • Poor pre-interview preparation can lead to vague or irrelevant questions being asked, resulting in less meaningful responses from the interviewee. This lack of direction may cause confusion or discomfort, hindering effective communication. Ultimately, insufficient preparation can prevent the interviewer from achieving their goals and obtaining valuable insights that could have been gathered with proper planning.
• Evaluate the importance of setting objectives during the pre-interview phase and how it influences the overall success of an interview.
  • Setting objectives during the pre-interview phase is critical as it provides a clear focus for both the interviewer and interviewee. These objectives shape the direction of the conversation and help ensure that key topics are covered. When objectives are well-defined, they not only streamline the flow of dialogue but also increase the likelihood of obtaining relevant information that aligns with desired outcomes, thus enhancing the overall success of the interview.

Related terms

Interview Preparation: The process of organizing thoughts, questions, and strategies before engaging in an interview to ensure effective communication.

Research: The act of gathering information about the interviewee or topic to create informed questions and understand context.

Interview Objectives: The specific goals or outcomes that an interviewer aims to achieve during the course of an interview.