8 Things to Ask When Interviewing Someone

On average, employers need to interview 6 to 10 people for a position. And if they don’t find someone right for the job after 2 to 3 interviews, they’ll start all over with fresh candidates.

As you can imagine, this can be a very time-consuming process. It’s probably one you’d like to avoid too!

The good news is, you can make candidate interviews more successful by asking the right questions. Interviewing will be a cinch!

Read on for 8 questions you should ask when interviewing someone so you get the best employees for your company.

1. Why Did You Apply for This Position?

Obviously, we need money to survive, so all candidates will be interested in the offered salary.

But their answer will be very telling as to whether or not they’d be a good fit at your company. You want someone who’s enthusiastic and passionate, after all.

So gauge their reaction to see if it’s genuine. That way, you can tell if candidates are grasping at any job opportunity or truly want to be a part of your team.

2. How Would Your Ex-Colleagues Describe You?

This is a better question than “how would you describe yourself” since it challenges candidates to view themselves from other perspectives. This can also give you insight into whether or not they’re good at working within teams.

For example, if they say others would describe them as a goofball, then that can be a red flag. They might be someone who doesn’t take their work seriously and depends on others to get projects done.

Or if they say they’re the quiet one, it might mean they’re not terrific at communicating with colleagues. On the other hand, it can also indicate that they get along with others and aren’t argumentative.

It might be best to first determine which characteristics and traits you’re looking for. This can help you decide whether or not someone’s a good fit.

3. What’s a Work Accomplishment You’re Proud Of?

Here’s another question where you can see if someone has authentic pride in the work they do. Plus, you can learn what strengths a candidate has.

For instance, they might tell you how they managed an unruly customer or ran a project from start to finish. This gives you more detail on what candidates did at their previous jobs and what types of workers they are.

4. Do You Prefer Team or Solo Work?

There’s no “right” answer here, especially since it’s dependent on the opening. But in general, those who are flexible and can do both types of work are ideal. It shows that they’re versatile professionals who will flourish in multiple settings.

If you have remote or hybrid work settings, then this question is even more important. Some people naturally like to be around other coworkers, while others are fine working alone all the time. Candidates in the latter category are excellent for remote work.

If you need to learn more about remote work, this page has great information.

5. What Are Your Weak Points You Can Improve?

This is a vital question to ask because you can easily weed out insincere candidates from the rest.

Usually, people will try to turn this question into a humble brag. For example, they might say they’re too much of a workaholic, hoping to impress you with their work ethic.

Good candidates will maintain their humility and be honest about their weak points. They’ll be able to connect these weak points with their strengths and propose constructive ways to improve themselves.

6. Why Do You Want to Leave Your Current Employer?

All good things must come to an end, but some candidates may be leaving a bad work environment. But either way, they should be able to answer this question with grace and maturity.

You don’t want to hire someone who badmouths their ex-employer, as this shows how they might treat the people at your company. Instead, go with candidates who are factual and speak with respect.

7. Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?

This is a cliche interview question, but it can provide you with quality insight.

You don’t want to hire someone who doesn’t have life goals set. So if they stall on this question and can’t give you a clear response, then that’s a red flag.

Ideally, you want an employee who will stay with your company on a long-term basis. They’ll want to move upwards in the business and provide invaluable services while doing so.

8. Do You Have Questions for Me?

Interviews are just as much an opportunity for candidates to learn more about the company as it is the other way around. So you should always make sure to ask this question.

Not only does this give candidates a better idea of whether they’re a good fit, but it also shows you who’s actually interested in the position and company. Passionate candidates will ask intelligent and thoughtful questions, while those going through the motion will have nothing to ask.

Interviewing Someone Is Easy With These Questions

Interviewing someone may be tough, even if you’re not in the hot seat. And many candidates come with rehearsed answers that don’t come off as genuine.

When you have a good list of interview questions, you’ll be able to really dig in and find suitable employees. And as a result, your turnover will drop and morale can improve too!

By taking some extra time to source excellent interview questions, you’ll set your company up for success.

For more about how to run your business, please check out the rest of our blog page now.