The fear of hiring the wrong person, the stress of offering the wrong salary and missing out on the talent, and worst-case-scenario, having to do the job yourself! Because, at the end of the day, if you don’t find the right person, you’ll most likely have to cover the job yourself.

Hiring the right person can be a significant source of stress for employers. In this blog, we’re providing you with essential, must-ask questions to use during interviews to help avoid these situations, ensuring you find the perfect candidate for the position.

Can you provide an example of a time when you took initiative to solve a problem or improve a process? This question helps assess a candidate's problem-solving skills, motivation, and ability to take ownership. A candidate who can provide a specific example demonstrates their ability to be proactive and contribute to organisational success.

How do you handle conflict or disagreements with colleagues? Conflict resolution and teamwork are critical skills in any workplace. This question helps you understand how a candidate addresses conflicts and works collaboratively with others. Look for candidates who show empathy, active listening, and a willingness to find a resolution.

What motivates you in your work, and how do you maintain that motivation? Understanding a candidate's motivation helps you determine if they align with your company culture and core value. Candidates who can identify their motivators and explain how they maintain them are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work.

Can you describe a situation where you had to adapt to significant changes at work? Change is inevitable for any organisation. This question helps assess a candidate's adaptability and resilience to change. Look for candidates who can demonstrate flexibility and a positive attitude when facing change.

How do you stay updated on industry trends and developments? A candidate who actively stays informed about industry trends is more likely to be engaged, proactive, and contribute to your growth. This question also reveals a candidate's dedication to their professional development.

Can you provide an example of a time when you had to work with limited resources or under tight deadlines? This question assesses a candidate's ability to perform under pressure and manage their workload efficiently. Candidates who can provide specific examples demonstrate their ability to prioritize tasks, think creatively, and maintain focus in challenging situations.

What are your expectations for career growth and development in this role? Understanding a candidate's career aspirations helps you evaluate whether you can provide the opportunities they desire. This question also reveals how well the candidate has researched your company and their level of commitment to the role.

What inspired you to apply for this role? This question encourages the candidate to share their motivation behind applying for the role, providing insight into their interests, values, and alignment with the company culture.

Tell us about a challenging situation you faced at work, and how did you handle it? By asking this question, you can gain valuable insight into the candidate's problem-solving skills, adaptability, and ability to work under pressure.

Can you describe a time when you had to collaborate with a difficult team member? How did you handle it? This question allows you to assess the candidate's interpersonal skills, teamwork, and conflict resolution abilities.

What do you consider your greatest professional achievement? Asking this question provides insight into the candidate's values, work ethic, and the kind of impact they can bring to your business.

What do you believe sets you apart from other candidates for this position? This question encourages the candidate to showcase their unique skills, experiences, or perspectives that make them the best fit for the role.

What type of work environment do you thrive in? By asking this question, you can determine if the candidate's preferred work environment aligns with your company's culture and values.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years? This question provides insight into the candidate's long-term goals, ambition, and potential fit with the company.

Asking the right questions during the interview process is crucial to dive deep and find the perfect candidate for your position. These questions will help you assess a candidate's skills, motivation, and cultural fit, alleviating the fear of hiring the wrong person.

By using these questions as part of your interviewing process, you’ll dive deep and uncover the true qualities that will lead to a successful hire. The more thorough the interview process, the better equipped you are to make the best decision for your business.

Remember, outsourcing your recruitment needs to a professional agency like One Eighty can also provide valuable support and guidance throughout the hiring process.

It’s the job of my team and me, to deeply understand what you and the business needs. Don't hesitate to give us a call on 04 472 6414 or drop us a line at hello@oneeighty.co.nz. We're here to help you succeed.