Strong Interview Questions
Needed as they may be, a new hire can take a serious hit on a company’s financials. Recruiting and training combined with salary and benefits, along with lost productivity until the new hire hits their groove, can skyrocket the cost of a new hire to nearly triple the cost of their first year salary.
This is why an interviewer should be just as prepared as the interviewee across the table. Strong questions identify strong candidates, and that’s why we suggest you add these five stunners to your interviewing repertoire:
“In a year from now, what achievement will we be celebrating together?” A good candidate can provide examples of past success. An outstanding candidate is already thinking about how to recreate that success in the future. This can also give you a feel for their understanding of your company, the ins and outs of their position, and the problems they’ll be expected to tackle.
“What’s your greatest strength that, if taken too far, becomes your greatest weakness, and how would you see that affecting your role?” Without the ability to self-reflect, an employee can’t capitalize on their best traits or make strides to strengthen their weaknesses. A double-whammy like this asks them to consider the full spectrum of their abilities and how they can make or break success for them and your company.
“You’re in this job, and you love what you do. You get an offer elsewhere. What offer, besides money, would lead you to make a move?” Figure out what makes your candidate thrive and tick by seeing what really drives them to work. When money’s off the table, what’s are they looking for in a work environment that motivates them to do more and to do it better?
“What do you not like to do?” You’d be hard-pressed to find one person that loves everything about their position from top to bottom. It’s natural to favor some duties over others, but those least-favorite tasks are a huge tell for position fit. A sales person that feels drained meeting new people, or an accountant that hates double checking his charts? Next!
“What questions do you have for me?” It’s an oldie but a goodie for a reason. Because it’s an interview staple, candidates can come prepared with creative and strategic questions that typically reveal more about who they are than their answers do. Really assess creativity by asking it early in the interview, and watch how they think on their feet when the natural flow is interrupted.
By taking time to critique your interview and add in more thought-provoking and insightful questions like these, you will differentiate your candidates to help you find the best fit possible.
For assistance with your recruiting and hiring processes, get in touch with Skywalk Group today.