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- Human Resources and Payroll in China 2016-2017 (5th Edition)
3. Apply a China-specific interview structure
An advisable interview structure is presented in the following table:
Typical Interview Structure in China
Warming-up
(5-8 min) – of greater importance in China
Longer with Chinese than with Western candidates due to Chinese culture specific behavior
Offer tea
Introductory questions create a more relaxed interview atmosphere for the candidate
Introduction
(2-4 min)
All interviewers should be introduced by name and function
Company presentation
(5-10 min)
Presenting materials should include bilingual company flyer, company’s strategy in Chinese, economic performance, HR development
strategy etc.
Candidate questions and answers
(30-40 min) – most important / longest part of the interview
Includes career development, former employment, project work, achievements, responsibilities
Ending
(3-5 min)
Candidate should leave with a positive impression
Provide clear indications on how you will follow up in terms of time-line and activity