The questions you ask during job interviews can reveal valuable insights about a candidate’s fit with your organization. Here are ten unique interview questions that can help you better understand your candidates – and what their answers may tell you about their abilities.
Ask These 10 Questions During Your Next Candidate Interview
1. What would you do instead of working if you had infinite money and resources?
Learning about candidates’ passions outside of work can shed light on their values. You can also learn more about the candidate’s creativity, initiative, and problem-solving skills.
2. What inspired you to go down this career path?
Asking about a candidate’s career origins can help you understand their motivations and whether they’re genuinely interested in the job. It can hint at whether they will likely stay in the role long-term.
3. What type of work environment makes you happiest and most productive?
Some individuals thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, while others prefer a more collaborative or flexible work setting. If a candidate’s response mirrors your organization’s atmosphere, they’re likely a good fit.
4. Which superhero is your favorite and why?
This question may seem lighthearted, but it can reveal if a candidate’s core values are aligned with your organization. For example, if a candidate chooses Captain America, they may value honesty and integrity.
5. What qualities do you like the most about yourself?
Asking candidates to describe their best qualities can reveal their self-awareness and confidence and whether their strengths align with the role’s requirements.
6. What words would your former coworkers use to describe you?
This question reveals how others perceive the candidate, hinting at how they may work with the rest of your team. Their response can also tell you about their communication and interpersonal skills.
7. What does your ideal day look like?
Asking about a candidate’s ideal day can reveal their priorities, motivation, and time management skills. This provides valuable insight into whether they fit the role well.
8. If you’re unsure how to do something, do you prefer to ask someone else for help or figure it out alone?
This can reveal a candidate’s problem-solving skills and initiative. For example, if a candidate prefers to figure things out on their own, they may be independent and resourceful.
9. What person most inspired you when you were growing up?
Asking about a candidate’s early heroes can reveal their values, work ethic, and whether they have a growth mindset. For example, if a candidate was inspired by a family member who overcame adversity, they may be resilient and adaptable.
10. Do you feel more comfortable in the spotlight or behind the scenes?
This question can tell you about a candidate’s personality, work style, and how they handle stress. For example, if candidates prefer to work behind the scenes, they may be more detail-oriented and prefer a supportive role.
Get the Best Results from Your Next Interview
These unique interview questions can help you determine whether a candidate is a good fit for the role. However, interviewing can be a time-consuming and challenging process.
As a top executive recruiting firm in Texas and across the country, Augustine Talent Group can help you find and interview leading candidates who are an excellent fit for your organization. Request an employee today to kickstart the process.