The Role of an Interviewer: Decoding the Basics and Beyond

When considering the role of an interviewer, one might think that its primary purpose is to simply ask questions and collect data. However, the interview process is far more nuanced and critical, especially in high-stakes environments such as employment and recruitment. An interviewer plays a pivotal role in understanding not just the surface-level information provided by a candidate, but also in observing and interpreting the candidate's various aspects to determine their suitability for a role.

What is the Role of an Interviewer?

At its core, an interviewer is responsible for collecting data from a candidate through a series of targeted questions. This collected data can be used for various purposes, including employment, credit card approvals, and more. The role is crucial because it requires a deep understanding of the candidate's abilities, experiences, and potential for success in a particular role. Interviewers must be meticulous in their approach, observing not just the words spoken but also the mannerisms and body language of the candidate.

Common Interviewer Roles within Organizations

In the United States, where I have worked, the role of an interviewer has often been filled by Human Resources (HR) personnel or members of a hiring committee. These individuals may carry out the interview process due to their expertise in evaluating candidates and ensuring that the hiring process is fair and transparent. However, in my experience, there are notable patterns and challenges associated with these roles:

Homogenization of Interviewer Profiles: The interviews I experienced tended to be conducted by young, white females in their early twenties. This demographic often read from prepared questionnaires with a clinical, emotionless demeanor. The lack of personal interaction and genuine engagement in these interviews made for a formal and sometimes impersonal experience. Note-Taking and Efficiency: While notes are a crucial part of the interview process, the notes taken were often illegible and seemed unrelated to the actual conversation. This practice raises questions about the thoroughness and authenticity of the recording. Automated Outcomes: After weeks or months of following the established interview process, candidates received generic automated emails about the outcome of their application. This process felt both impersonal and inefficient.

The True Essence of an Interviewer's Job

Beyond the simple act of administering questions, an interviewer must embody the role of an auditor in bringing out the best performance from the candidate. To excel in this role, an interviewer should:

Create a Comfortable Environment: Establishing a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere allows the candidate to perform at their best. This mental ease helps in obtaining more authentic responses and behavior. Thorough Preparation: Comprehending the key points and expected answers for the interview is crucial. Preparation ensures that the interviewer can guide the conversation effectively without missing important details. Relevance and Astuteness: Focusing on relevant subject matters shows that the interviewer is genuinely interested in the candidate and their qualifications. This approach helps in uncovering deeper insights into the candidate's capabilities. Humor and Adaptability: Injecting a bit of humor and being adaptable to the candidate's style of communication can open up additional pathways for meaningful interactions. This personal touch can yield more insightful and beneficial information for the hiring process.

In conclusion, the role of an interviewer extends far beyond the surface-level task of asking questions. It requires a multifaceted approach involving comfort, preparation, relevance, and personality. The interviewer must be an expert in their craft, using their skills to peel back the layers and uncover the true potential of the candidates they evaluate. Whether in a corporate setting or a recruitment agency, the ability to effectively conduct interviews is a key skill that can significantly impact the success of the organization.