Interviewing candidates can be tricky, especially when dealing with a chatty candidate (also known as Talkative typology). They often give lengthy, irrelevant answers and may interrupt or finish your questions. Here's how to manage them effectively. :)

Recognizing a Talkative Candidate - A talkative candidate typically exhibits the following behaviors:

1. Provides long answers to initial questions to build a relationship.
2. Share a lot of irrelevant information.
3. They do not pause in their speech.
4. End your questions for you.
5. Talks over you or keeps interrupting.
6. Frequently uses phrases like, "One more thing..." or "I'm almost done..."

How to Behave when interviewing them - some strategies:

1. Use More Closed-Ended Questions: To keep answers concise, ask questions that require a short, specific response. For example, instead of asking, "Tell me about your previous job," you might say, “Tell me how many years you worked at your previous job.” Use numbers and short questions to narrow the response.
2. Speak Less Often and Take Pauses: After asking a question, take a pause. This can signal that the candidate should be brief and to the point. It also allows you to regain control if the candidate starts to ramble.
3. Interrupt Them If Necessary: If a candidate starts to go off track, politely interrupt and bring the conversation back to the relevant points. For example, you could say, "I appreciate your enthusiasm, but let's focus on your experience with project management."
4. Use Silence: Silence can be a powerful tool. If the candidate continues to talk excessively, then you should just stop talking and maintain eye contact to prompt them to wrap up their thoughts.
5. Make them aware & responsible: Time is important and with this typology, the interviews usually take longer time. Make sure to let the candidate know that time is running out and that the interview will have to end soon. It's important to stress the need for shorter and more specific responses.

Actions to Consider - steps to implement during the interview process:

1. Prepare a Structured Interview Plan: Outline your questions and allocate a specific time for each segment of the interview.
2. Set Expectations Early: At the beginning of the interview, explain that you have a set agenda and that time is limited.
3. Practice Active Listening: Focus on what the candidate is saying and interject when necessary to keep them on track.
4. Use a Timer: Consider using a timer to gently remind both you and the candidate to stay within the allotted time for each question.

Interviewing talkative candidates can be challenging, but using closed-ended questions, talking less, and strategic use of silence can help maintain control. Remember, keep the interview structured and focused to navigate chattiness with ease.

Happy interviewing!

Explore additional tips and strategies - Mastering the Star Method