As a hiring manager, you may occasionally encounter candidates who areextremely high-energy and assertive during interviews. While enthusiasm isgenerally positive, it can sometimes overshadow the interview process. Here'show to maintain control and conduct an effective interview:

1. Set Clear Expectations

Begin the interview by outlining the structure and your expectations.This establishes boundaries from the start.

• Example: "We'll begin with     your background, then discuss the role, and finish with your questions.     I'll guide us through each section."

2. Use Strategic Interruptions

Politely but firmly interrupt when necessary to redirect theconversation.

• Technique: Raise your hand     slightly or use the candidate's name to interject.
• Example: "Thank you, [Name].     I'd like to pivot to discussing your experience with [specific     skill]."

3. Employ the "Parking Lot"Method

For tangential topics, acknowledge them but defer for later discussion.

• Example: "That's an     interesting point. Let's park that idea and return to it if we have time     at the end."

4. Ask Specific, Closed-EndedQuestions

Use targeted questions to guide the conversation and limit long-windedresponses.

• Instead of: "Tell me about     your leadership style."
• Try: "Can you give me a     specific example of how you motivated a team during a challenging     project?"

5. Utilize Non-Verbal Cues

Your body language can subtly indicate when it's time to wrap up aresponse.

• Technique: Lean forward slightly     and maintain eye contact when you're ready to move on.

6. Implement Timed Sections

Allocate specific timeframes for each part of the interview andcommunicate these to the candidate.

• Example: "We have 15 minutes     for this section. I'll give you a heads-up when we have 5 minutes     left."

7. Redirect Tactfully

When a candidate goes off-topic, gently but firmly bring them back to thepoint.

• Example: "I appreciate your     enthusiasm about [topic]. To ensure we cover everything, let's refocus on     [original question]."

8. Practice Active Listening

Show that you're engaged, but use this technique to control the flow ofconversation.

• Technique: Summarize key points     before moving on. This shows you've listened and allows you to transition.

9. Be Prepared to Take Charge

Sometimes, you may need to be more direct in maintaining control.

• Example: "I understand you     have a lot to share, but I need to ensure we cover all necessary topics.     Let's move on to..."

10. End with Purpose

Conclude the interview decisively, thanking the candidate and clearlyoutlining next steps.

• Example: "Thank you for your     time and energy. We'll be in touch within [timeframe] regarding next     steps."

Remember, the goal is to create a balanced dialogue that allows you toaccurately assess the candidate while giving them a fair chance to presentthemselves. By implementing these strategies, you can maintain control of theinterview process while still appreciating the candidate's enthusiasm andenergy.

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