10 Best Interview Questions

Headhunters and human resource staffers conduct numerous interviews. Over the years, the process of weeding out the bulk of candidates has become more complex, but basic interview questions remain consistent. The following are ten good interview questions for getting the clearest picture of a potential employee:

1. Are you qualified for the position? This is one of the most common questions interviewers ask, but it has not lost its effectiveness. The question serves two purposes: first, to find out what the employee thinks they need to be successful in the position, and second, to see what the applicant considers his or her best qualities. Listen for examples of the applicant’s qualifications, not just a list.

2. Why are you interested in the company? Be specific. This question serves a double purpose: to see how much the interviewee really knows about the position and the company, and to learn about his or her interests and motivations. You lean what the applicant is looking for in a job and how devoted they are to your company.

3. What job would you like to have in 5 years, and how will this job get you there? Slightly less open-ended than the question “where do you see yourself in 5 years,” these are good interview questions because it makes applicants consider not just their dream job, but practical steps towards that dream.

4. What do you consider your biggest accomplishment in your career so far? The answer should give you a very clear idea of what the applicant considers important and impactful. It will also let you see the size and scope of his or her dreams and abilities.

5. What are your pet peeves? By asking seemingly trivial questions, you can personalize the interview and get the applicant to open up. You can also get an idea of how easily he or she becomes annoyed.

6. How do you spend your free time? This is another common question, but more open-ended than the popular “what are your hobbies?” This question doesn’t force the interviewee to come up with specific activities, but invites a description of a typical evening after work. It shows what the applicant is interested in and passionate about.

7. What would be your ideal work environment? By asking the client to come up with the perfect work environment, you see what he or she values in the workplace and get ideas on how your workplace might be improved.

8. How will you contribute to the company’s goals? This question is another test of how well the applicant knows your business, and it invites him or her to imagine working at the company. It gives you an idea of skills the applicant considers most important for succeeding in the position.

9. What is the biggest risk you took that paid off? What is the biggest risk that failed? These are good interview questions because they invite the applicant to share his or her dreams and ambitions, and give you an idea of how much he or she is willing to risk and for what reward.

10. What would your last supervisor consider your best qualities? Your worst? Instead of asking about an applicant’s strengths and weaknesses, you are asking a question easily verified, forcing a truthful answer. It also lets applicants judge themselves through another’s eyes and consider their strengths and weaknesses more carefull

To learn more about good interview questions and evaluating job seekers, explore Symphony Placements today.