When asking behavioral questions in an interview, it’s crucial to include those that uncover integrity. Does a candidate do what is right, even if it’s unpopular? Do they respect other peoples’ time (namely when they’re the one in power)? The following questions will help separate the OK candidates from the ones with true integrity.
Interview Questions That Show Integrity
What does the word “integrity” mean to you?
Ask the candidate to define integrity. If they struggle to even grasp the concept, that might be a red flag. Look for keywords such as “honesty,” “doing what is right,” “reliable,” and so forth.
Describe a time when you admitted a mistake to a co-worker or supervisor.
It takes a strong sense of character to admit a mistake. Has the candidate ever covered something up for the sake of job security? Or placed blame on someone else? Look for candidates who actually confess to a slip-up. What happened from the situation and what did they learn?
Have you ever experienced a loss or paid a price for doing what was right?
Perhaps the candidate lost friends. Or got in trouble after admitting a mistake at work. This is one of the most thought-provoking interview questions that show integrity.
Would you ever lie for me?
Correct answer: No.
Tell me about a time when your honesty was tested.
Has a coworker or boss ever questioned the candidate’s honesty? Or, by the same token, has the candidate ever been faced with a situation, such as knowing that a coworker takes office supplies or leaves early from work, in which they did what was right instead of covering for a friend? What did the candidate do, and how did the dilemma turn out?
Do you do what you say you’re going to do? Explain.
Integrity also means following through and showing reliability. Does the candidate have a positive track-record of finishing projects, setting and accomplishing goals and working well with a team? A potential employee with a trail of unfinished business may not make for a great hire.
Have you ever called in sick when you weren’t?
Someone who considers sick days interchangeable with vacation days won’t fare well for your team. Beware the candidate who makes excuses for taking a sick day; the answer to this question should be a definite “no.”
What other interview questions that show integrity would you add to this list? Let us know — and be sure to contact TruPath to find great hires who practice integrity.
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