THE SCIENCE AND PRACTICE OF A STRUCTURED EMPLOYMENT INTERVIEW COACHING PROGRAM

Abstract

We describe a scientist–practitioner collaboration around a structured employment interview coaching program. This description includes information on how the program was developed and applied, the program content, connections with past literature, and a description of context. We also provide rich anecdotal information and surveys on reactions by users as well as input from the community and various other constituencies. We also describe scientific research on this intervention that has examined its various effects. The specific project goals were to (a) provide assistance to promotion candidates in preparing for a structured panel interview and to survey employee reactions to the program, (b) determine whether the intervention had an effect on interview performance and what preparation and response strategies in a structured interview seemed to be associated with performance, and (c) provide these benefits without negatively influencing validity and reliability of interview procedures, and if possible, enhance these psychometric characteristics. The information provided here can assist those who want to apply this type of intervention successfully in other selection settings.