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Weekly Newsletter Vol. 72 - January 15, 2025

When you smash your interview

Generating your Lead Story…

Being Easy to Work With: The Underrated Skill That Sets You Apart

In recruitment, much of the focus is placed on qualifications, experience, and how well a candidate answers those make-or-break interview questions. But there’s another factor—one that often flies under the radar yet plays a massive role in hiring decisions: being easy to work with.

Think about it. After an interview, the people on the other side of the table aren’t just analyzing what you said. They’re reflecting on how you made them feel. Did you seem approachable? Collaborative? Did you create an atmosphere of openness and mutual respect? These are the impressions that linger long after resumes and questions are forgotten.

Why It Matters

The interview process is a two-way street. Candidates are expected to show up prepared, be professional, and give their best effort. As an interviewer, you should hold yourself to the same standard. If you’re distracted, dismissive, or overly rigid, it sends a message—not just about how you view the candidate, but also about the culture of your team and organization.

On the flip side, being approachable, transparent, and professional fosters trust and builds a strong foundation for a positive working relationship. Candidates who feel respected and valued in the interview process are more likely to bring their best selves to the role, should they join your team.

How to Be Easy to Work With

1. Be Present: Give the candidate your full attention. Avoid multitasking or distractions during the interview.

2. Set the Tone: Create an environment where candidates feel comfortable. This doesn’t mean the questions can’t be tough—it’s about showing empathy and maintaining a positive tone.

3. Communicate Clearly: Be transparent about the role, the challenges, and the expectations. Honesty goes a long way in building credibility.

4. Foster Two-Way Dialogue: An interview isn’t just about grilling the candidate. Encourage questions and meaningful conversation to create a collaborative dynamic.

5. Show Gratitude: Thank candidates for their time and effort. A simple acknowledgment of the energy they put into preparing for the interview can leave a lasting impression.

A Lasting Impact

Recruitment isn’t just about filling roles—it’s about building relationships. Being easy to work with, even during the high-pressure environment of hiring, sets the stage for a collaborative and respectful work culture.

Remember, professionalism and effort go both ways. The candidates you’re interviewing today may not just be potential employees—they might also be future advocates, collaborators, or partners. Don’t underestimate the power of being approachable, open, and transparent—it could make all the difference in attracting and retaining the best talent.

You can’t make this stuff up

_{(*Disclaimer: these are real experiences provided by RME's community of job seekers and hiring managers)}

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Find your next job with: The Wohl Group

As strategic recruiting specialists, The Wohl Group offers a full range of recruiting and consulting services for businesses and hiring managers. We strive on a daily basis to provide each client and candidate we speak with the best resources for the hiring process.

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