Two-Way Interviews

Sharlyn Lauby

7 Apr 2009

Right now, like many of us, I know quite a few people who are unemployed or thinking about changing jobs in the near future. As a result, when they’re contacted for interviews there’s a lot of convo about “Oh, I hope the company likes me” and “I would love to get offered something on the spot.”

I want to toss out some advice for those currently in the job market. Don’t forget you are interviewing the company too. Yes, it’s great to hope the company will like you…but will you like the company? Interviewing and employment are two-way streets. Think of it like dating . . .

You and the company meet (aka the application/resume). Someone makes the first move to ask the other out on a date (an interview). After a few dates/interviews, you’ll decide to go steady (the job offer). The introductory period is the same as being engaged for which in the end, if you both still like each other…you get married. And, never forget even married couples grow apart and change which can lead to divorce (read: termination.)

I use this analogy to remind people during the actual recruitment process…both parties should be doing the interview. The company is deciding if you have the skills and experience to do the job. You should be determining if the organization has a culture you can embrace.

And, companies – what does this mean for you? Well, don’t sugar-coat your culture. Let candidates know how the organization works. For example, if candidates in your company go through several interviews…let them know. I once worked some place where, I swear, every person must have been interviewed by 6 or 7 people. Every job. Didn’t matter. So I told applicants ahead of time. It saved them from wondering. I also included a positive outlook (on what might be considered a negative) … if you did get hired, think of all the people you would already know!

Times are tough. People are anxious to find a job. Still, take the time to find the right fit. Think of it this way – most people don’t marry the first person they date.

Image by slushpup