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It’s human nature: we all share many of the same experiences, including finding ourselves in front of an interviewer in hopes of landing what we’re sure is our perfect job. Then, the day arrives when you find yourself on the other side of the desk in the role of the interviewer. You’ll likely recognize some of the traits and nervousness that a job candidate is displaying and while you may be able to relate to some of the candidates’ actions, odds are, there are a few things you’ve forgotten along the way. A. Harrison Barnes, renowned career coach and the brilliant mind behind Hound.com has a few tips for even the most seasoned interviewers who are facing a slew of job candidates vying for only one or two positions.

* There is a new uncertainty in today’s job market. More people are applying for the same jobs. You may have three administrative jobs available, but you can expect hundreds of applicants. Each has far more at stake in this economy and each has likely been out of work far longer than they could have anticipated.

* Today’s job applicants are aware of certain advantages a company has access to. While many may not realize it, employers are routinely scouring social sites such as Facebook and Twitter in an effort to get to know the candidates better. Usually, though, candidates are more concerned about background checks that include credit reports and past arrests and convictions. Remember – many people who have always had stellar credit reports may have stumbled into financial difficulties in this recession. In fact, many employers have ceased including credit checks in their standard procedures for that very reason.

* You’re going to run into many candidates who are on their tenth or twentieth (or more) interview. While they may be putting their best foot forward, it’s important for interviewers to recognize they’ve answered, “So, where do you see yourself in five years?” so often, they’re saying it in their sleep and many may be wondering if they’ll still be going on one interview after another in five years.

* Used to, job candidates equated a long interview with the very real possibility of a job offer. The longer the interview, the better the chances. Now, though, interviewers may be conducting long interviews because they have a few excellent candidates who are perfect for the one job opening they have. It’s OK to tell them. They’ll appreciate the candid tone and who knows, they may pull some gem out of their qualifications you weren’t aware of, but that seals the deal, says A. Harrison Barnes.

It’s tough for both the candidate and the interviewer these days and the fact is, no one is certain about much when it comes to employment numbers. Contradictory information seems to be released daily, including February 2009 reports that unemployment was down, but job cuts were even higher than January. A bit of patience, an awareness of what the candidates are facing, honesty and searching Hound.com for the best candidates are the four best tools for today’s interviewer.

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