You're faced with a defensive candidate. How can you offer constructive criticism effectively?

I think you have to carefully approach a defensive candidate to ensure that feedback is received positively by first starting with stating that feedback is intendent to help the candidate improve and is not a criticism. It's important to be specific, to offer the opportunity for questions and to encourage the candidate to reach out and/or apply for future opportunities.

To offer constructive criticism to a defensive candidate: Start with positives to ease tension. Be specific about the issue, focusing on behaviors, not personal traits. Use a collaborative tone, showing you're there to help them improve. Encourage self-reflection by asking open-ended questions. Offer actionable solutions and support for improvement.

There are two additional points that I think should be incorporates: 1. Provide some form of positive feedback on their application, experience and interview performance. This can help candidates consider positives as opposed to just constructive criticism. 2. With any constructive criticism suggestions and recommendations should be made to help the candidate improve along with reinforcing that the purpose for providing such criticisms is to assist them to improve. It is also important to be mindful with any delivery of constructive criticism, if it is the right time, the right place and if you are the right person to be providing the feedback.

When faced with a defensive candidate, I would approach the situation with empathy and tact. I’d start by acknowledging their perspective, then frame my feedback in a positive light, focusing on specific behaviors rather than personal attributes. I’d use “I” statements to express how their actions impacted the interview, and provide clear examples of what could be improved. Encouraging an open dialogue can help them feel less attacked and more willing to consider the feedback, ultimately fostering a more productive conversation.