How to Conduct Interviews That Candidates Actually Enjoy

Interviews can be a daunting experience, and according to Hays, the recruitment agency, more than 51% of working professionals have had a negative experience during the interview process. This poor candidate experience has turned almost half of candidates away from potential employers. If you want to attract top talent, the only way to get the best out of the interview is to make it as enjoyable and positive as possible. Below are some effective interview tips for employers to help you conduct interviews candidates genuinely enjoy.

Comfortable Setting

A hostile environment creates apprehension from the start, which is why it is crucial to create a comfortable interview setting. Smile when the candidate enters, offer a coffee or water, and don’t be afraid to use a touch of humour. Building rapport during interviews helps candidates relax and perform better.

For virtual interviews, encourage the candidate to get comfortable and clearly set out the interview agenda so they know what to expect. Whether the interview involves competency-based questions or a more relaxed discussion, clarity helps create a better candidate journey.

Conversational

Whether competency-based or informal, the interview should feel like a conversation. Many people assume that interviews are designed solely for candidates to impress employers. However, modern recruitment best practices show that interviewers must also impress candidates to strengthen their employer brand.

Treat the process like a two-way conversation instead of an interrogation. You can still ask structured questions while keeping the discussion flexible and natural. After the initial question, follow up with prompts to learn more about the candidate. Candidates are more honest and confident when the interview feels conversational—which ultimately helps you make better hiring decisions.

Personalise the Process

Candidates often feel like they are just another number during the hiring process, so personalisation is key. Highlight what you liked about their CV, mention what stood out, and explain why they were shortlisted. These small actions build trust and deliver a more positive candidate engagement experience.

Take it Slowly

Even well-prepared candidates don’t know what questions they’ll face, so take your time. Allow them space to think and form their responses. If they struggle, offer supportive prompts or smoothly transition to the next question. Remember, nerves can easily impact performance. A patient, supportive interviewer helps create a positive interview experience, leading to stronger, more accurate assessments.

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