Beyond skill-based questions, it’s crucial to ask candidates interview questions that determine work ethic. Are they on time? Do they have a history of doing whatever possible to produce successful results? Do they work well with a team as well as solo? The following questions will uncover a candidate’s true work ethic while also warranting more than just a simple “yes” or “no.”
Interview Questions That Determine Work Ethic
Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond the call of duty to get things completed.
Does the candidate go the extra mile at work? This is one of the best interview questions that determine work ethic. It allows the interviewee to discuss a specific instance of working hard on a project or task — and doing more than what was expected of them.
Describe a time when you had to juggle multiple important projects. How did the situation turn out?
Time management, multitasking, and a sturdy work ethic will be examined with this question. Can the candidate handle more than one task at a time? Did anything in these projects fall through the cracks due to poor planning, missing deadlines or lack of quality in the work?
Talk about a time when one of your ideas was challenged by a colleague. What happened?
How does the candidate handle criticism — constructive or otherwise? As one of the top interview questions that determine work ethic, this allows them to provide an anecdote. What transpired? How did the candidate defend their idea, and what ultimately came of this situation? Dig deep to find a strong sense of character, integrity and work ethic.
Tell me about a time when you had to work as a member of a team to complete a task.
When it comes to an employee’s work ethic, it’s important to include teamwork under that umbrella. If the candidate only prefers to work alone, or if they’ve had negative experiences working on a team, it may present a red flag.
How would your former boss describe your work ethic?
This question allows them to self-reflect while examining another perspective. Reference checks are increasingly common and help to validate what was discussed.
What was your first job? Why did you choose to do it?
The earlier in life someone started working is an indicator of good work ethic. (Especially if they haven’t stopped working since.) It’s an interesting question that can uncover the candidate’s drive to work hard. The type of job (and industry) can tell a lot about the interviewee as well!
What kinds of questions do you ask to determine work ethic? We would love to know! And if you’re looking to connect with candidates who demonstrate strong work ethic, contact TruPath today.
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