Job Interview Dynamics and Phases

Initial phase and creating a safe environment

Every professional interview is divided into critical phases to ensure its effectiveness. The main objective of the initial phase is to establish rapport, that level of attunement and trust necessary for smooth communication.

In this first meeting, the evaluator must introduce himself/herself clearly, detailing the purpose of the meeting and the estimated duration.

It is vital to create a climate of tranquility through a friendly tone, even offering basic elements of hospitality to reduce the candidate's anxiety.

During this period, the legal identification data is validated and a first observation is made on the presence and punctuality of the individual.

This phase lays the groundwork for stripping the applicant of his or her defensive resistances and allowing him or her to show authenticity.

Development and in-depth inquiry

The development phase forms the core of the evaluation process.

Here, the applicant's academic background, professional history and specific competencies are explored in depth.

The interviewer must act as an investigator, throwing out "mango shells" or unexpected questions to verify the veracity of the achievements listed on the résumé.

Reasons for leaving previous jobs and patterns of stability or adaptability are sought.

It is essential that the psychologist evaluates not only what is said, but how it is said, paying attention to body language and the emotional coherence of the answers.

This block allows the collection of observable facts and behaviors that will serve to justify the final hiring recommendation.

Closing and recording observations

The closing phase seeks to end the meeting leaving a positive feeling in the candidate, regardless of whether he/she will be selected or not.

Space is given for the applicant to ask questions about the organization, the salary package or the next steps in the process.

This is the moment to "sell" the company, detailing the conditions of the position, the schedule and the organizational culture to ensure that the candidate's expectations are aligned with the institutional reality.

At the conclusion, the evaluator should thank the client for the time given and immediately record the final observations and clinical intuitions, avoiding that the passage of time distorts the perception of the findings obtained during the session.

Summary

Every professional interview is divided into critical phases; the initial phase seeks to establish rapport or attunement in order to reduce the candidate's anxiety. It is vital to introduce oneself, detail objectives and validate legal data, allowing the applicant to be authentic.

The development phase is the core of the process, where the candidate's background and past experiences are deeply explored. The interviewer acts as an investigator, evaluating the coherence between verbal and body language to verify the veracity of the achievements reflected in the resume.

The closing seeks to end positively, providing space for questions about the salary package and institutional culture. At the conclusion, the evaluator should thank you for your time and record your clinical observations immediately to avoid future distortions.