10 Job Interview Questions
Whether conducted in person or virtually, any job interview should include certain questions. Those include closed- and open-ended ones designed to help determine the level of the individual’s interest, work history, strengths, and skills.
Tip: Think about the strengths and weaknesses of your current team and look for someone who will complement their strengths.
Here’s a list of key questions to ask, as shared by Robert Half, a California-based, hiring-focused consulting company.
1. “What do you know about our company, and why do you want to work here?” You’ll quickly see who has done their homework and who hasn’t.
2. “What skills and strengths can you bring to this position?” This, too, will show whether they really looked into the position or just blindly applied.
3. “Can you tell me about your current job?” In addition to detailing their background, the response to this open-ended question will tell you about their communication abilities.
4. “What could your current company do to be more successful?” This will show if the individual sees “the big picture” and will shed light on why they want to leave.
Ask candidates, “Where do you see yourself in five years?” Does the response show both drive and clear goals?
5. “Can you tell me about a time when you had a disagreement with a boss or colleague and how you handled the situation?” This is a good way to learn about their ability to resolve conflict. How did they handle it? Did they reach common ground?
6. “Do you work best alone or on a team?” Someone who prefers working alone may not do well in a position requiring multitasking or ongoing client contact.
7. “Why are you leaving your current job?” Does your opening offer alternatives to the factors the individual dislikes? Does the individual seem to have unrealistic expectations?
8. “How would coworkers describe you?” This gives you a look at their soft skills. Think about the strengths and weaknesses of your current team and look for someone who will complement their strengths.
9. “How would your boss describe you?” After listening, follow up with a request for references. Check them and see if the prospect’s take jives with theirs.
10. “Where do you see yourself in five years?” Does the response show both drive and clear goals?
Don’t forget to close by asking if the candidate has questions for you.
Do you have a favorite question you ask candidates? Tell us about it and share in the conversation on Facebook here.
Stephanie De Long
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