Whilst interviews are by no means the only screening tool available when considering potential new hires, they still form an important part of the selection process and for most companies are still the screening and selection tool of choice. So how do you get the most from your interviews and ensure that despite the unreliability they can be fraught with, they generate the information you need before appointing your next hire?
Make sure that some of the key information which is vital to the success of the future placement is not missed.
By incorporating the following 10 questions into your interview, in combination with your other questions regarding skills, availability and organisational fit, you will make sure that some of the key information which is vital to the success of the future placement is not missed:
1. Why did you apply for this position? Seems simple but it will give you great insight into the motivations of the individual and the real reasons they have applied for the role.
2. What salary and benefits are you looking for in your next role? Finding this information out before you disclose what you are offering is so important! Many applicants will accept a lower than expected salary only to try and negotiate higher within their first few months on the job. In addition if your target is well below theirs, they will be more likely to continue seeking a better paying role and accept yours as a stop gap. Conversely they may be seeking less than you were prepared to offer and you may be able to secure a fantastic new hire for a little less than you expected.
3. Why did you leave your last role (and all previous roles)? By asking this question for every single position on their resume you get a great insight into their motivations for moving between previous roles, and can assess whether this may be an issue for you.
4. If I was to ask your previous managers to describe you at work what would they say? The best thing about this question is that you can check the truth of their responses through your reference checks.
5. What was the best job you ever had and why? This question allows you to explore what they really like in their role and workplace.
6. Which was your lest favourite role and why? Conversely this will highlight things that may be problematic for them in your role.
7. What happened during this time? By identifying time gaps in resumes and questioning them you may uncover hidden, but very important information that an applicant would not have otherwise disclosed.
8. What do you know about our company? Understanding how much research they have done displays their true level of interest and enthusiasm.
9. What are the 3 most important things for you in the company you are going to join and/or the position you are going to take on? This again provides you with insights into their desires and motivations. Despite all the benefits you may be able to offer, if your role and company do not offer the key elements they are seeking in a role, the employment relationship may never work.
10. What questions do you have for me? Giving applicants chances to ask questions of you about the role and the company gives them a chance to confirm their interest and suitability for the role, which in the end will also help you to make the right decision.
