How can you upgrade your interview process? What are you doing right now that works? What’s with all these questions? Well, Top Applicant’s hiring experts have asked a lot of questions in our time. Now, we’re finally deciphering the intent behind the top 10 job interview questions we’ve asked in almost every interview!
Whether you’re a Top Applicant looking for an edge or a Top Employer looking to get better at interviewing, knowing the intent behind each question is always important. Here are the most important questions employers should be asking (and how applicants can answer).
1. “So tell us about yourself!”
This is often a great icebreaker, and a great way to understand a candidate’s values. Employers should always focus on the professional and personal values shared in this answer. By aligning the subtext behind these responses to company culture, Top Employers can typically identify qualified candidates with just this question!
2. “Why did you apply for this role?”
Again, subtext matters! If a candidate answers this question with too many “I” statements, beware! To find a truly committed applicant, Top Employers look for an answer that identifies with company culture and core values. When you answer this question, look for ways to connect your goals for personal growth to the role and the company.
3. “Could you explain this gap in your resume?”
The worst answer in this case is a non-answer. Whether an applicant took a gap year or just finished up a stint in San Quentin, the reason shouldn’t matter as much as the honesty behind the answer does. Top Employers should use this opportunity to judge truthfulness more than an applicant’s past.
4. “How do you keep yourself organized while juggling multiple tasks?”
Clear, concise organization skills should be on full display in this answer. To truly be a Top Applicant, candidates should display a willingness to work with their team for guidance while sharing an equal sense of responsibility for managing their workload.
5. “What would your previous co-workers say about working with you?”
We can’t stress enough how important honesty is in these answers. Look for clear examples that you can corroborate through work history and conversations with references.
6. “How have you handled stressful situations in previous roles?”
Top Employers find this response one of the most useful out of our top 10 job interview questions. An applicant’s response will give you a deep insight into what stresses them out, how they handle difficult situations, and their unique conflict resolution strategies.
7. “Could you describe a time you went above and beyond in your role?”
When employers ask this question, we recommend consulting an applicant’s resume or cover letter to corroborate the example shared. This question also opens the door to follow-up questions that help you dig deeper into the details of how that candidate could thrive in their role.
8. “Why are you leaving your current role?”
This is one of the most telling responses our experts have ever gotten from applicants. It shows what keeps the applicant productive and fulfilled in their role. Even the most appetizing applicants can be dismissed if their answer to this question describes too many burnt bridges, or negative experiences with their former employers.
9 “How does this role fit into your career plan?”
We love an applicant with forethought, and we’re sure you will too! If an applicant comes into an interview with a clear career plan, you can bet that they’re ready to tackle bigger roles in the future. Applicants that answer this question concisely, clearly, and logically should rise to the top of your callback list!
10. “Do you have any questions for us?”
Remember when we said that the worst answer is a non-answer? That philosophy applies here as well! If a candidate asks about your experiences, the company’s values, or certain projects, you can bet they did their homework. Candidates looking for more than just a paycheck will set themselves apart with the questions they ask in this part of the interview process.
Answer Confidently
Top Applicants aren’t just asking for better hiring, they’re demanding it. So how will you answer? Join the HR revolution with other Top Employers posting their jobs for free with the human way to hire! Build your profile, try these top 10 job interview questions, and find your next employee confidently with Top Applicant.
