Canned interview questions are basically useless, especially if you are looking to find the right hires to fill key positions in fast-paced business environments. Cookie cutter questions may work for larger companies that value conformity over creativity but not for more entrepreneurial startup ventures.
To find the right person for the job, you need to take charge of the interview process, do away with all those canned interview questions and dig deeper to find if the candidate is a strong fit for the position. Start by asking the following questions:
Why do you want to work for this company, and what are your expectations about the job?
If the candidate gives a detailed answer, it means that he or she did some research about the company, understands what the job entails, and wants to join the company for all the right reasons. This can be a good indication that the candidate really cares about the company and is willing to go the extra mile to get the job. On the other hand, if the candidate gives a more generic response to the question, he or she may simply be looking for just any job. You don?t need this kind of person in your organization.
Who are your role models, and what makes them special?
Asking this question allows you to get a more in-depth insight on the behavioral patterns the candidate admires most.
What do you do best?
Every person excels at something, so you need to encourage the candidate to give an honest answer. Knowing what the candidates are good at would enable you to put them in the right position and in the right team to get the best possible results.
What motivates you to get up in the morning, go to work and give it your best shot?
While there is no right or wrong answer to this question, the candidate?s response would give you an indication if he or she is the one you have been looking for all along. Look for those who are naturally curious and have a lot of energy since these people usually stay on top of what?s happening in the industry, identify trends before they happen and tend to think more sensibly than the others.
How does relying on others make you better?
The best candidates are those who know what their strengths and limitations are. They are aware that they do not know everything and that working with others can help them accomplish the company?s goals.
