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Unit 3: Interview Skills
3.2.1 Essential Features of Interview Notes
We have seen above, there are different purposes for which we have interviews. But all of them
have the following features in common:
1. There is a definite purpose, and it is known both to the interviewer and the interviewee.
2. Both the parties need to prepare for the communication event.
3. All interviews are prearranged. The only possible exception is the dismissal interview.
4. There are at least two participants in the event—an interviewee and an interviewer. But in
common practice, there is one interviewee facing more than one interviewer.
5. There is clear exchange of information. The information exchanged may or may not be
kept secret.
3.2.2 The Structure of an Interview
Like every communication event, an interview has a rather well-defined structure. In other
words, we can say that an interview is a formal communication event, the aim and outcome of
which is understood by both the parties. They have, therefore, to proceed accordingly. Both the
parties mutually to take care of the three stages—beginning, middle, and end, just as in a
presentation the speaker alone has to manage these stages. Each of these stages requires effective
communication skills as stated below:
1. Opening/Start
(a) Introduction
(b) Statement of the purpose of the meeting.
(c) Making the other person comfortable.
(d) Creating an atmosphere of relaxed open-minded approach, commitment to the
purpose stated above, and preparing to start discussing things frankly.
2. Middle/Main Body
(a) Aim at exchange of information.
(b) Keeping the discussion to the point.
(c) Listen attentively and patiently.
(d) Keep eye-to-eye contact.
(e) Give carefully thought out answers.
(f) Make sure to cover tile agenda.
(g) Take care that interruptions, if any, are polite.
(h) Seek clarification, if needed.
3. Closing
(a) Summing up the discussion/exchange of information.
(b) Describing the action decided upon.
(c) Avoiding a hurried or abrupt ending.
(d) Closing on a positive note.
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