History of Job Interviews: From Past to Present

Have you ever wondered why job interviews make you feel so nervous? Or how the process of getting a job has changed over time?

In his book Ladders Interviews Guide, Marc Cenedella explores the history of job interviews and how they've evolved. You'll learn about the shift from community-based hiring to formal interviews, and discover strategies to excel in modern interview settings.

Keep reading to uncover fascinating insights into the history of job interviews and gain valuable tips for your next career move.

The Shift From Community Ties to Formal Interviews

The history of job interviews reveals that they're a relatively recent development in human history. While job interviews are a common part of modern life, it wasn't always this way. Before the Civil War, most people secured their positions through close-knit community connections rather than formal interviews. It wasn't until about a century ago that the practice of job interviews as we know them today began to take shape.

This shift from community-based job placement to formal interviews has had a significant psychological impact on job seekers. You might find yourself feeling anxious or stressed during an interview, and there's a good reason for that. Throughout much of human history, being confined in a space and questioned by strangers would have triggered our vigilance response. It's no wonder that many people, even highly successful ones, feel uneasy when facing the interview process.

The Unnatural Nature of Interviews

Job interviews require a set of skills and behaviors that don't come naturally to most people. You're expected to articulate your essential skills and navigate complex social interactions that aren't typically part of everyday life. This can be particularly challenging because the rapid evolution of the workplace has outpaced our ability to develop nuanced social cues and norms.

In the past, job assessments for physical labor focused on concrete manual abilities, while evaluations for office-based roles emphasized intellectual prowess and abstract reasoning. Today's interviews often involve a mix of these elements, along with an assessment of your "fit" within the company culture.

Preparing for Modern Interviews

Given the unique nature of job interviews, preparation is key. Here are some strategies to help you navigate the modern interview process:

Research is Crucial

Before your interview, take time to thoroughly research the company. This means more than just glancing at their website. Dive into their recent news updates, explore their social media presence, and try to understand their current projects and market reputation. This knowledge will help you tailor your responses and ask insightful questions during the interview.

Understand the Role

Ask the recruiter or hiring manager about the three critical elements that will determine success in the role. This information will help you structure your responses and prioritize your examples during the interview. It's also beneficial to understand the department's structure and the interviewer's team, if possible.

Take Care of Yourself

Don't underestimate the importance of self-care in interview preparation. Ensure you're well-rested, properly nourished, and hydrated. Dress appropriately and allow ample time for travel. Understanding and preparing for your personal physiological reactions can help you feel more confident and composed during the interview.

Mastering Interview Responses

Now that you understand the evolution and nature of job interviews, let's explore how to craft compelling responses to interview questions.

Address the Company's Key Concerns

When evaluating candidates, employers typically focus on three main concerns. Your goal is to align your responses with these concerns:

1. Showcase your past accomplishments and abilities as they directly relate to the role's success factors.
2. Tailor your stories and examples to demonstrate relevant skills.
3. Avoid self-focused or irrelevant responses. Instead, concentrate on how you can meet the employer's needs.

Demonstrate Expertise Through Behavioral Answers

Many interviewers use behavioral questions to assess your past actions and achievements. These questions operate on the assumption that past behavior predicts future conduct. To excel in these situations:

1. Clearly describe your previous actions and significant achievements.
2. Highlight your strengths while also acknowledging areas for growth.
3. Adapt your responses to align with the interviewer's expectations.

Gather Information and Leave a Positive Impression

Remember, an interview is a two-way street. It's your opportunity to assess whether the role and company are right for you. Use this time to:

1. Explore the team dynamics, challenges, and objectives.
2. Inquire about the company's culture and success factors.
3. Demonstrate your eagerness and aptitude for the position through thoughtful questions.

By actively participating in the dialogue and showing genuine interest, you'll not only gather valuable information but also leave a lasting positive impression.

The Ongoing Evolution of Interviews

As the workplace continues to evolve, so too will the interview process. Virtual interviews, for instance, have become increasingly common, presenting new challenges and opportunities for both employers and candidates.

Despite these changes, the fundamental purpose of job interviews remains the same: to match the right person with the right role. By understanding the history and psychology behind job interviews, you can approach them with greater confidence and success.

Remember, while interviews may feel unnatural, they're a skill that can be developed with practice. Each interview experience, regardless of the outcome, is an opportunity to refine your technique and get closer to landing your ideal position.