Getting the right candidate for the job is the holy grail of recruitment. As an employer you want someone who is flexible, dynamic and capable of managing an often diverse workload. The interview process is therefore your key tool in finding the qualities, skills, experience and ability required.

Valuable time can be saved and better candidates selected by compiling a candidate profile. This is a list that details the most important selection criteria for the role. Certain considerations will be universal, such as key characteristics required, most important skills needed, relevant experience and desired educational level. Using this list you can then advertise your vacancy. Always ensure that the language used in the advertisement adheres to equal opportunity principles.

It is recommended that candidates be asked to submit a cover letter with their CV and to refrain from making telephone contact. The requirement to apply with a cover letter saves employers time and more importantly immediately identifies ideal candidates as it connects the candidate's relevant experience to the advertised position.

The cover letter also demonstrates the candidate's attention to detail. Correct grammar and spelling tell the employer that the candidate invested time in making a good impression.

Another good way to speed up the selection process is to conduct informal telephone interviews with a shortlist of candidates. This allows the employer to determine if the candidate's qualifications, experience, workplace preferences and salary needs are in line with the position and the company ethos.

Once you have screened your candidates and determined the right ones to interview, develop a list of probative questions. Refrain from obvious and broad questions. The candidate should sell themselves to you and demonstrate quick thinking. Again questions should not touch upon on factors such as gender, age or disability.

You should ask each candidate to give examples of real-life scenarios, such as a difficult situation they handled well. You will get more candid answers and better background information with these types of questions.

Oisín Scollard is a barrister with legal and HR company Employment Clinic

www.employmentclinic.ie