1. Review and prepare

• Review the candidate’s application and resume - note accomplishments, gaps,
• Prepare a variety of questions to ask them (see next page)

2. Welcome them

• Greet them when they arrive, smile, shake hands, take their coat
• Break the ice by commenting on the weather, traffic, etc
• Offer them a drink (water/coffee/tea)
• Consider using their resume to discuss a mutual area of interest (arts, sports,)
• Lead them to a private office, close the door, say no to telephone interruptions.

3. Conduct the Interview:

• Explain that you’ll be taking notes to ensure accurate record of their information
• Review their volunteer job description to refresh their memory
• Ask to see pertinent info: valid driver’s license, computer diploma, etc.
• Ask a variety of open-ended questions to get the candidate talking
• Make note of any gaps in information/risk factors*
• Let them know it is all right to pause and think before answering questions (“It isn’t always easy recalling incidents that happened a while ago....”)

4. Close the interview:

• Let them ask questions of you. (Helps indicate their level of interest)
• Tell them you will be checking their references before making an offer
• Ask them if they are still interested in the position
• Let them know when to expect a call and follow through on that promise
• Thank them for coming in, shake hands, and lead them out of the office.

5. Evaluate:

• Review their responses and determine whether or not to continue screening them. Trust your instincts - make a list of pluses and minuses if you’re not sure.
• List potential concerns, and make sure these are addressed in reference checks or during a second interview.
• Determine which references to call and what to ask them. Schedule these ASAP.