Cornerstone of HR Value Chain (Talent Acquisition) - Part IV

In my view, we can not sum up components of talent acquisition without touching upon the interviewing process which is the backbone of the talent acquisition process.


Interview refers to a process of face to face conversation between two or more people where the questions are asked by the interviewer to obtain specific information from the interviewee.

Interviews are particularly useful for getting the story behind an applicant's experiences. The interviewer can pursue in-depth information around a topic. Usually open-ended questions are asked during interviews.

Before you start to design your interview questions and process, we shall need to clearly articulate what problem or need is to be addressed using the information to be gathered by the interviews. This helps us keep clear focus on the intent of each question.

The interview process provides opportunities to both, the employer and the prospective employee in following manner -

Opportunity for employer : -
· Promote the organization
· Expand on the information provided in the application
· Further investigate the validity of the information provided
· Obtain additional verbal and non-verbal information
· Look for other positive and negative characteristics

Opportunity for prospective employee -
- Learn more about the organization, individuals and programs
- Develop a more complete understanding of roles and responsibilities
- Further understand organizational culture, norms and values
- Decide if the organization / position is a good fit with the skills, abilities, interests and time commitments


An effective interview can be conducted and given by keeping in mind a successful formula. The concept is explained from both the perspectives (interviewer’s & interviewee’s) –

Professionalism = Preparation + Presentation + Punctuality à P = P + P + P
Preparation: get to know the company you are hoping to work for and are working for. Thorough background information can go a long way. You should know and research the company well before. You must be prepared to discuss the industry, the company's relative size within that industry and show that you know who the major players and competitors are.

Presentation: it is not just the clothes you wear, but your general presentation during the interview. Dress for success, formal attire is the best option. Body language such as eye contact and how you greet are important. Shaking hands is a sign of confidence & respect and so is making regular eye contact. Always be polite not just during the interview but to any one you may have contact with in the office or work environment.
Punctuality: being on time is essential to a successful interview. Being a little early gives you time to relax and prepare for your interview. If you are going to be late or unable to attend for any unforeseeable reason, intimate ahead and plan accordingly. This shows that you are serious and take your commitments seriously.

It was great interacting with you all on the first cornerstone of HR value Chain - i.e. Talent Acquisition. In the coming articles, I shall touch upon on Organization Development as the next level of HR value chain! Please feel free to comment in case you would like me to cover anything specific from Talent Acquisition stand point.