As Houston staffing experts, Murray Resources knows that interviewing new graduates can be more challenging than veteran candidates. That’s because they’re light on experience, which can make them hard to evaluate. How can you pick out the strongest asset to add to your company roster? Here are a few tips to keep in mind during the process:

Tip #1: Use a checklist when hiring.

Before you begin the interview process, create a checklist of qualifications and traits that you’d most like to see in your new hire. Take a look at the job posting again and think through what it takes for success in that particular job. Once you have a checklist in place, it will be far easier to hone in on the candidates who make the cut and those who don’t.

Tip #2: Set the tone.

The candidates you interview will probably be more nervous than those with experience. After all, they’re most likely used to an academic setting, not a professional one. That’s why it’s important to set the right tone. You want to gain their trust so they open up. At the same time, you want to send the message that you’re a professional organization with high standards.

One good way to begin is with some ice breakers. Ask the candidate about their hobbies or why they chose a certain degree program. Try to find a common ground to keep the conversation flowing and natural. This is a good way to make them more comfortable and also gain more insight into their personalities.

Tip #3: Steer clear of industry jargon.

Remember, you’re not interviewing a candidate with 10 years of experience. So stay away from company or industry jargon they may not be familiar with. If you have to use it, then explain what it is. If you don’t, they’ll assume they should know what it is and will feel more nervous because they don’t. Keep in mind, the more comfortable you make the candidate, the more honest their answers are going to be.

Tip #4: Don’t make snap judgements.

The interviewing process is stressful for even the most experienced candidates. So expect those new to the workforce to be even more anxious. So don’t judge them too harshly over seemingly minor mistakes. Give new graduates a little more leeway than you would to those with years of experience.

Tip #5: Ask behavioral questions.

The candidate might not have work experience to relate. However, they can certainly use academic, volunteer and internship experience when answering behavioral questions. This will help ensure the candidate you ultimately do hire is a good fit for the position and the company.

Need more help with your interviewing and hiring process?

Call in the experts at Murray Resources. As Houston’s top staffing experts, organizations all over the city rely on our expertise to source and retain top talent for hard-to-fill, key positions across a broad range of business disciplines. Contact us today to find out more.