Job interview : is there any rule to succeed? : successful communication between job seekers and organisations

Abstract

Knowledge of the communication processes is important to explain the mechanisms of human behaviours in different settings. This study discusses the dynamics of communication throughout the recruitment process between potential candidates for a post and the organisations seeking to hire them. Although the whole recruitment process is the focus of the study, special attention is given to the interviewing phase. An in-depth description of communication process involved in the job interview is provided from the standpoint of different stakeholders. A qualitative research methodology is used: semi-structured interviews with both interviewers (Human Resources Managers and Hiring Managers) and interviewees (candidates for the vacancy available at the organisation). The interviews were conducted with representatives of some firms based in Malta that seek new employees for their open vacancies as well as with candidates for the aforementioned job opportunities. The collected data highlighted that the job interview is a two-way process and both the hiring manager and the candidate are expected to know not only how to speak about important issues but also listen to the other person. Both parties should always seek for improvement of their communication skills by in-depth preparation before every job interview. The candidates are expected to understand the role they applied for and the hiring managers are expected to ask accurate questions to be able to elicit all important information.