Spark Team at ADP
(Originally published on ADP’s blog, “Spark”)
Interviews are an essential part of hiring process, helping you gather job-related information that you typically can’t find through resumes and applications alone. To be effective, interviewers should prepare and ask the right questions.
Here are ten key interview questions to consider:
Question #1: What did you like (and dislike) about your most recent job?
A candidate’s answer to this question can help you determine whether they are a good fit for the job. Look for whether their “likes” align with the job opening and whether their “dislikes” conflict with the job and your company’s culture. For example, if the candidate says that they disliked the fast-paced nature of their previous job and you know your work environment shares that characteristic, this could be an indication that the job isn’t a good fit. In these cases, ask follow-up questions to help identify whether a conflict exists.
Question #2: How do you approach a task that you find challenging?
Every job has work that an employee will find challenging. You want to know how candidates will handle the challenging work to ensure it gets done. For example, some employees may engage their time management skills and tackle difficult work in the beginning of the day when they have more energy and fewer distractions.
Question #3: Can you describe a work conflict you’ve had with a colleague or supervisor and how you handled it?
Conflicts are bound to pop up from time to time. A candidate’s answer to this question can reveal how they would likely handle similar situations working for you and whether they can work as a team player. Look for whether their responses align or conflict with your company’s culture and/or practices.