Keep in mind that your goal as a manager is to find the
best person for the job and your company. If you set your sights on
maintaining the highest good for everyone, instead of focusing on your own
nervousness, you'll be in far better shape than you think. Remember that
you know your stuff. You wouldn't be a manager if you didn't. You can be a
good steward of the privilege by reminding yourself of your goals
regularly.
Do your homework. Know the company policies inside out. Take time to
reflect on the concerns you had when you were in the candidate's shoes.
Write those concerns down and be sure to answer them, possibly addressing
the issues before the applicant brings them up. Write down your agenda and
stick to it.
By anticipating the candidates' concerns and making them feel welcome,
you'll be more easily able to establish a rapport. Their technical skills
will be on their resume and application. You need to get a handle on what
kind of person they are and how good their "people skills" are. Remember
what magnate John D. Rockefeller said: "I will spend more on a person with
the ability to deal with others than any other skill under the sun." Know
that interpersonal skills account for most of a person's career success.
The applicants will demonstrate theirs based on the opportunities you
provide
At a practical level, remember that we judge others most on how they look
than anything else. Thus, others judge us the same way. Make sure your
grooming is impeccable: squeaky-clean hair, hands, nails, ears, teeth.
Shoes and clothes must be in good repair, laundered and pressed. Even if
your company encourages casual clothing all the time, remember that
managers are supposed to be leaders. So dress to look authoritative -- and
sloppy never looks authoritative. Neither do sneakers unless you're
Michael Jordan at a basketball game.
Go out to wherever the candidate is waiting and greet him or her. Smile,
make eye contact and shake hands. Extend your hand first and shake firmly
-- a wimp's handshake commands no respect, and we always make judgments
based on others' handshakes. Thank the person for taking the time to apply
for the job. This will cut down on tension and make your job easier as a
result. Tell the applicants where to sit and ask to take their coats for
them. Ask questions and really listen to the answers. Most people ask a
question and, while it's being answered, the plan what they'll say next.
Not a good move for anyone. Don't be afraid of pauses or still moments.
Don't be afraid to take time to phrase your questions well.
When the interview is over, stand, shake hands again and thank the
applicant again. See them to the door. Then go to some private corner, pat
yourself on the back for a job well done, and breathe deeply.