Pro Tip for Successful Interviews: Balancing Clarity and Candidate Aspirations


As someone who has been on both sides of the interview table, I've come to appreciate the value of open and honest communication during the hiring process. Check out these tips to successfully find the best candidates for your practice.

Interview Tip

Don't try to oversell the position; foster a conversation about mutual fit.

In our quest to find the perfect match between candidates and roles, it's crucial to strike a balance between showcasing the position's strengths and being candid about its responsibilities. Here's why:

Clarity Is Key

When we paint a clear picture of what the role entails – from day-to-day tasks to long-term expectations – we set the foundation for a transparent and productive working relationship. Ambiguity only leads to mismatched expectations down the line.

Listening to Aspirations

Interviews are not just a one-way evaluation; they're a two-way conversation. Instead of solely focusing on a candidate's qualifications, we should also ask about their aspirations and what they're seeking in their next role. This approach helps us understand whether the position aligns with their goals and ambitions.

Cultivating Mutual Growth

It's not just about businesses finding the right people; it's equally important to help individuals find the right roles. When we openly discuss the position's ins and outs while also encouraging candidates to share their desired direction, we pave the way for a symbiotic relationship where both parties can learn, grow and flourish together.

Actionable Insights for Interviewers

Craft job descriptions that highlight both the exciting aspects and the real challenges of the role.

During interviews, explore a candidate's long-term career vision and how the position aligns with it.

Create an environment where candidates feel comfortable discussing their preferences, goals and potential areas of growth.

Advice for Job Seekers

Don't hesitate to ask questions about the daily responsibilities and expectations for the role.

Share your career aspirations openly, demonstrating how they harmonize with the role you're considering.

Prioritize organizations that value transparency and your personal and professional growth.

Remember, the interview process is an opportunity to discover not only what the candidate can bring to the company, but also how the company can contribute to the candidate's journey. Let's aim for matches that are rooted in honesty, understanding and shared ambitions. After all, the right fit benefits everyone involved.

Looking for assistance with your practice's recruitment needs? Book a free consultation with PS2 to explore the flexibility of our tailored package offerings.