You're conducting a job interview. How can you show empathy to a candidate while keeping it professional?

1 Active Listening

Active listening is a key component of showing empathy. When you listen attentively to what the candidate says, you're not just waiting for your turn to speak; you're fully engaged and trying to understand their perspective. This involves maintaining eye contact, nodding, and giving verbal cues like "I see" or "That's interesting." By doing so, you communicate that you value their thoughts and are interested in what they have to say. This approach not only makes the candidate feel heard but also helps you gather valuable information about their fit for the role.

2 Open Questions

Asking open-ended questions invites candidates to share more about themselves, which can reveal their passion, motivation, and personality. These questions typically start with 'how', 'what', 'where', 'when', 'who', or 'why'. For example, "What challenges have you overcome in your previous role?" encourages candidates to open up about their experiences. This technique shows that you care about their past work and how they handle situations, which can foster a sense of empathy without crossing into personal territory that might be inappropriate for a professional setting.

3 Body Language

Body language speaks volumes about your attitude towards the candidate. To demonstrate empathy, ensure your posture is open and inviting. Avoid crossing your arms, which can seem defensive. Lean slightly forward to show interest, and smile when appropriate. These non-verbal cues can help the candidate feel more relaxed and valued. Remember, the goal is to create a positive environment where candidates can showcase their true potential, and your body language plays a significant part in achieving that.

5 Respectful Tone

Using a respectful tone throughout the interview is crucial for showing empathy. Regardless of the candidate's answers, respond with courtesy and professionalism. This includes avoiding dismissive language or tones that could be interpreted as condescending. By maintaining a respectful tone, you create an atmosphere of mutual respect. It's important for candidates to leave feeling valued, even if they're not the right fit for the job, and your tone can greatly influence their overall impression.

6 Stress Management

Interviews can be stressful for candidates, and acknowledging this can be an act of empathy. Without compromising the interview's structure, allow for brief moments where candidates can collect their thoughts. If you notice a candidate is particularly nervous, you might say, "It's normal to feel nervous. Take your time with your answer." This kind of support can help alleviate their stress and encourage a more genuine response, benefiting both the candidate and your understanding of their potential.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?