Why Do Interviewers Sit In Without Asking Questions?

Interviews can be a complex and multifaceted process, and sometimes, less experienced interviewers do not participate in the questioning. This might seem counterintuitive at first, but there are several reasons why experienced interview observers might choose to remain silent.

Observation and Learning

One of the primary reasons interviewers sit in but do not ask questions is observation and learning. Less experienced interviewers may benefit from observing seasoned colleagues to pick up effective interviewing techniques and styles. This non-participatory role allows them to gain insights and refine their own interview methods without the pressure of active participation.

Evaluation

Sometimes, interviewers are present to evaluate the primary interviewers’ performance, ensuring that the interview process adheres to company standards and practices. This role helps maintain consistency in the hiring process and guarantees that all candidates are evaluated according to the same criteria.

Diversity and Inclusion

The presence of a diverse panel is also important for diversity and inclusion. Even when not all panel members actively ask questions, the mere inclusion of different perspectives can help broaden the scope of the interview. This ensures that no single viewpoint dominates the evaluation process.

Support Role

Another common reason for non-participatory observers is to provide support. These individuals may assist with note-taking, assessing non-verbal cues, or managing the logistics of the interview. They don’t ask questions directly but contribute to the overall efficiency and fairness of the process.

Future Reference

Those who attend merely to serve as future references might gather insights for future hiring decisions. They observe the interview and take notes to help them make informed judgments during subsequent interviews. This role is crucial for building a database of candidate knowledge and company standards.

Specialized Knowledge

Sometimes, individuals with specific expertise attend interviews to provide context or insights. Their role is to offer specialized knowledge after the interview without directly engaging in the questioning. This can be particularly useful in specialized industries where expert input is valuable.

In summary, the role of interviewers who sit in without asking questions is typically supportive or evaluative rather than directly participatory in the questioning process. Their presence ensures that the interview process remains consistent, fair, and effective, contributing to the overall quality of hiring decisions.

For instance, during my tenure at several companies, I frequently sat in on interviews to observe and evaluate both the interviewee and the interviewer. To verify that they were applying the interview training I had provided, I observed their techniques. Additionally, I evaluated how candidates interacted with their peers during the interview, which helped me provide valuable feedback and insights. In panel interviews, the answers provided by one interviewer often answered the questions that the silent interviewer had, making it unnecessary to ask repetitive questions and wasting everyone's time.