Don’t do interviews, do discussions (thinkingthrough.substack.com)

Article summary

The article suggests that framing job interviews as discussions rather than interrogations can lead to better outcomes for both the interviewer and the candidate. This approach can help to reduce nervousness and allow for a more natural and collaborative conversation. By doing so, it can provide a more accurate assessment of the candidate's abilities and fit for the role. The author shares personal anecdotes and tips on how to convert an interview into a discussion.

Main themes

• interview techniques
• communication skills
• candidate evaluation
• company culture
• bias in hiring
• alternative interview formats
• team collaboration

What commenters say

• Some argue that being able to perform under pressure is an important skill, especially in certain roles like sales.
• Others believe that a discussion-style interview can be a better predictor of a candidate's ability to communicate and work with a team.
• There is a concern that prioritizing social skills in the hiring process can lead to bias against candidates who are technically skilled but less outgoing.
• Some commenters think that alternative formats, such as take-home assignments, can be a more effective way to assess a candidate's abilities.
• It is suggested that companies should also be evaluated by the candidate during the interview process to ensure a good fit.
• There is a debate about the importance of communication skills in programming roles, with some arguing that they are essential and others believing that they can be developed on the job.
• Some argue that having a discussion-style interview can help to identify candidates who are a good fit for the company culture and values.
• Others believe that it is difficult to accurately assess a candidate's abilities in a short interview, regardless of the format.