Situation: A CEO seeks advice on interviewing both for new hires and promotions. What advice and guidelines do others suggest to improve interviews? How do you interview for new hires and promotions?

Advice from the CEOs:

• Preparation before hiring or promotion is critical.
  • Preparation means having a road map – for what will be accomplished in the new position and for how the company selects and hires or awards promotions.
  • Discipline: have the patience to do it well.
  • Be aware of and watch for possible legal issues. This has become increasingly important under DEI.
• Raise the bar. Each new addition or promotion should enhance the company’s capabilities instead of just filling a slot.
  • Hire individuals with skills that complement areas of your own or the organization’s weaknesses.
  • Be creative in developing sources or new hires.
• Ask open-ended questions and follow-up with additional open-ended questions to clarify areas that the response opens.
  • Focus interview questions and processes to identify demonstrated values and habits.
  • Insert pregnant pauses into the interview. How does the interviewee respond?
  • Listen for what is NOT said as much as what is said.

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