Pre-interview preparation

Definition

Pre-interview preparation is the process of gathering information and developing a strategy before conducting an interview, aimed at ensuring the interviewer is well-equipped to handle various situations that may arise during the conversation. This involves researching the interviewee, understanding the context of the interview, and preparing questions that can navigate difficult topics or sensitive subjects effectively. Proper preparation can help build rapport and establish trust, making it easier to engage in open and honest dialogue.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Effective pre-interview preparation can significantly reduce anxiety for both the interviewer and the interviewee, leading to a smoother interaction.
2. Understanding the emotional state of the interviewee can guide how to approach sensitive subjects during the interview.
3. Anticipating potential objections or challenging topics allows the interviewer to prepare appropriate responses and follow-up questions.
4. Creating a structured outline or list of key points helps keep the interview focused and ensures that important topics are covered.
5. Utilizing background knowledge gained from research can help build credibility and foster trust with the interviewee.

Review Questions

• How does effective pre-interview preparation influence the dynamics of handling difficult interviews?
  • Effective pre-interview preparation plays a crucial role in managing difficult interviews by equipping the interviewer with knowledge about the subject matter and the interviewee's background. This understanding allows the interviewer to anticipate challenges and approach sensitive topics with tact. By having a strategy in place, including well-thought-out questions, the interviewer can foster a more comfortable environment, encouraging openness and honesty from the interviewee.
• In what ways can research contribute to managing sensitive topics during an interview?
  • Research contributes significantly to managing sensitive topics by providing context about the interviewee’s experiences and viewpoints. When an interviewer is informed about relevant issues or past controversies surrounding an interviewee, they can tailor their questions more thoughtfully. This approach minimizes misunderstandings and allows for deeper exploration of sensitive subjects while showing respect for the interviewee’s feelings and perspectives.
• Evaluate the impact of active listening in conjunction with pre-interview preparation on achieving meaningful interviews.
  • Active listening combined with pre-interview preparation creates a powerful synergy for achieving meaningful interviews. When an interviewer is well-prepared with background information and relevant questions, they can engage more deeply with the interviewee's responses. Active listening ensures that the interviewer not only hears but understands what is being said, enabling them to ask insightful follow-up questions. This two-way communication fosters a more engaging dialogue that can lead to richer insights, particularly when navigating complex or challenging issues.

Related terms

Research: The act of collecting information about the interviewee, their background, and any relevant topics to create a comprehensive understanding before the interview.

Questioning Techniques: Methods and strategies employed to formulate questions that elicit informative responses, especially when discussing challenging or sensitive subjects.

Active Listening: A communication skill that involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what the interviewee says during the conversation.