Employers should be wary of 'interview minefield'

The interview process can be a minefield for employers as much as employees, according to one expert.

While many will make use of services such as a sales recruitment agency for their recruitment of staff, those that do not need to be aware of the potential discriminatory pitfalls.

Richard Brown, employment partner with law firm Osborn Clarke, remarks that there is a "whole raft of unwritten rules governing interview practice".

He said: "For the unwary, these rules can be a real minefield.

"It's critical that anyone unfamiliar with the rules take direction from HR before they start the process."

However, he also notes that when advertising for positions such as sales jobs, it is equally important to be aware of the law.

In particular, he notes that phrases such as "young and dynamic" or "mature experienced lady" all have legal discriminatory implications.

Simon Mitchell of leadership consultants DDI told the BBC that interviewers need to be wary of crossing line between putting the client under legitimate pressure in questioning and bullying.

He said: "There is a line over which it is difficult to see the validity and usefulness of crossing. No badgering and bullying."


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Filed: 06-06-2008