Interview Questions You Should (Almost) Always Ask

The interview process is your best chance to determine if a candidate is going to be a good fit for your organization. As you conduct candidate interviews, make sure you are asking the right questions so you get answers that are illuminating and that give you the insight you need to make an informed hiring choice. Working with a staffing agency is usually best to find qualified candidates, but even when you have staffing professionals helping out, the quality of your interviewing process can make a big difference in whether you build a great workforce.

To get some important insight into your potential job applicant, there are a few key interview questions to put on your list. Some of the things you should almost always ask candidates include:

• What did you like (and dislike) about your past employment? Look for someone who doesn’t have a lot of negative complaints about a past employer, but who is also perceptive enough to know what worked in the job environment and what didn’t. Finding out about what an employee liked in the past also helps you see if a job candidate will be a good fit for your corporate culture.

• Why do you want this job? The employee should be focused on how he can make a valuable contribution to your organization, rather than solely concerned about what the job can do for him professionally. Look for candidates who provide specifics about why the job would be a good fit, as this shows they have done their research.

• Where do you see your career in five years?  This question can give you insight into whether the employee will grow with your business and whether the candidate is serious about being on a leadership track.

The interview process can be complicated, but asking these key questions can help you narrow down which candidates are right for your organization. Working with an experienced staffing agency can also help make sure only the most qualified candidates are considered for positions in your organization. SmartTalent is a trusted staffing agency helping employers to find top talent in Fife, Kirkland, Renton, Lynnwood, and surrounding areas.  Contact us now to learn more about how we can help your business.