• Interview panel members
• Duration for each interview
• Interview format (audio/video)
Interview Planning Checklist
Effective interview planning is crucial for identifying and selecting the best candidates. This comprehensive checklist ensures a structured and professional interview process that evaluates candidates thoroughly and fairly.
By preparing interview questions in advance and aligning them with job requirements, HR teams can ensure consistent evaluation and minimize unconscious bias during the hiring process.
The checklist also helps in coordinating with interviewers, setting clear objectives, and creating a positive candidate experience that reflects the company’s values and professionalism.
Remote Interview Checklist
Send interview invites to candidates with date and time
Set deadline for interview invitation response
Determine
Confirm
• Interviewer availability
• Dress code requirements
Verify technical requirements (internet connection, laptop, equipment)
Prepare and Distribute
• Job description
• Candidate's resume
• Interview questions
• Candidate evaluation form
On-Campus Interview Checklist
Draft detailed interview agenda
Determine
• Budget allocation
• Interview panel composition
• Interview duration
Reserve tentative dates
Logistics Planning
• Meal arrangements
• Candidate travel arrangements
• Provide point of contact details
Venue and Equipment
• Reserve interview room
• Arrange necessary equipment (laptop, projector, boards)
• Ensure accessibility accommodations
In-Office Interview Checklist
Create detailed agenda
Planning
• Set interview budget
• Assign interviewers
• Schedule interview slots
Logistics
• Confirm interviewer availability
• Arrange meeting room
• Organize refreshments
Documentation
• Prepare job descriptions
• Compile candidate resumes
• Create evaluation forms
• Prepare structured interview questions
Final Steps (All Interview Types)
• Review interview structure
• Validate question list for role alignment
• Prepare feedback collection mechanism
• Schedule post-interview evaluation meeting
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should interviews be scheduled for?
Interview duration varies by position and stage, but typically: initial screenings (30 minutes), technical interviews (60-90 minutes), and panel interviews (90-120 minutes). Always include buffer time between interviews.
What makes effective interview questions?
Effective interview questions are behavior-based, situation-specific, and open-ended. They should assess past performance, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit while avoiding bias and illegal topics.
How to ensure interview consistency?
Maintain consistency by using standardized questions, structured evaluation criteria, and uniform scoring systems. Train all interviewers on proper techniques and ensure equal treatment of all candidates.
What are common interview planning mistakes?
Common mistakes include insufficient preparation, unclear evaluation criteria, poor time management, lack of structure, inadequate panel preparation, and failing to align questions with job requirements.
How to handle virtual interviews effectively?
For virtual interviews, ensure reliable technology, provide clear connection instructions, have backup plans for technical issues, maintain professional virtual backgrounds, and adapt assessment methods for online format.