First impressions are crucial and the role interviewers play in that is crucial. Job seekers are getting more and more comfortable with interviewing the interviewers, and focusing on finding a position and company that will help them grow and develop in their career.

As much as job seekers need to break certain habits that they have for interviewing, interviewers also need to make sure to break themselves of habits they have picked up.

If you have any of these habits, consider the effect they can have on a potential candidate.

1. Lack of Preparation

One of the cardinal sins of interviewing is arriving unprepared. Interviewers should thoroughly review resumes, cover letters, and any other relevant documents beforehand.

Review the job description itself as well so that you can answer any questions the candidate will have about the role itself.

2. Poor Communication Skills

Effective communication is the cornerstone of successful interviews. Interviewers who fail to articulate questions clearly or actively listen to candidates may miss vital information.

Clear communication fosters a positive candidate experience and ensures that both parties understand each other, setting the stage for a successful working relationship.

3. Overlooking Cultural Fit

While skills and qualifications are essential, overlooking cultural fit can be detrimental to team dynamics. Interviewers should gauge not only a candidate’s technical abilities but also their compatibility with the company culture. Some questions you can ask to figure out their culture fit includes:

• Can you describe a work environment or team that you thrived in and enjoyed working with?
• How do you handle stressful situations or high-pressure scenarios in a team setting?
• Can you share an example of when you went above and beyond to provide excellent customer service?
• How do you adapt to changes in policies or procedures within a workplace?
• What values are important to you in a workplace and how do you ensure your actions align?
• Can you share an experience where you contributed to creating a positive work atmosphere or team culture?
• What do you know about our company culture, and how do you see yourself contributing to it?

Ignoring this aspect can lead to high turnover rates and a disjointed work environment.

4. Relying Too Heavily on First Impressions

It’s natural to form an initial impression, but relying solely on them can be a mistake. Remember to give the candidate some grace, especially on a first-round interview. They may be nervous, or overly excited about the opportunity.

Remain open-minded and evaluate candidates not only based on the first impression, but also on their skills, experience, and potential.

5. Dominating the Conversation

An interviewer’s role is to assess the candidate and to do so, you have to give them the room to tell you about themselves and their experiences.

Make sure not to interrupt or cut them off when they are talking, and listen to truly understand what they are saying to you rather than listening to simply respond.

If a candidate feels like their voice can’t be heard during an interview, they’ll likely think working at the company will be the same experience.

6. Neglecting to Sell the Company

Interviews are a two-way street. While evaluating candidates, interviewers should also take the opportunity to sell the company. Highlight the organization’s strengths, values, and growth opportunities.

Share your own experience at the company. What made you join it? Why are you still working there? What have been some of your favorite projects or moments while working there?

A well-rounded interview should leave candidates eager to be a part of the team.

7. Ignoring Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity and inclusion are vital components of a thriving workplace. Interviewers should be attuned to their biases and strive for an inclusive hiring process.

Failing to consider diverse candidates can result in a homogeneous team that lacks the innovation and creativity that diversity brings.

By recognizing and rectifying these common bad habits, hospitality employers can elevate their interviewing processes. A thoughtful and inclusive approach to interviews not only attracts top talent but also contributes to a positive and thriving work environment in the hospitality industry.