"Interviewing candidates is a big time-waster," said Donna. "I spend an hour talking to a candidate. Yet I can feel a good fit within thirty seconds. The rest is me going through the motions."

"What do you focus on, when you interview someone?" I asked.

"Questioning on his or her history versus the position profile. Any gaps are a problem."

"How boring!" I countered. "I bet they feel the lack of fit with you just as quickly. You need to inspire candidates by focusing on their future with you as much as their past. Plus you learn far more by sharing typical issues they will face. Beware of that immediate sense of a good fit. It can be fatal."

"How do I do that kind of interview?"

"By being more spiritually connected at your core. Then you can recognize that each candidate has a spiritual core (whether they know it or not) that might find greater expression by working with you. Before you meet someone, prepare yourself. Balance the discussion time between a) who they were, b) who they are, and c) who they can become with you. But always start with c). Remember, they are interviewing you too."

Talking of interviewing, some wonderful ANE news! The Board of A New Equilibrium is looking to recruit a full-time Executive Director to lead our growth. Might you, or someone you know, be interested? The full description is here and at our home page.

Stephen
ANE =  Calm, Confident, Connected Leadership