Asking the right questions during an interview can make a huge difference in the direction your company takes moving forward. A poor personality fit can be detrimental to your business, and it could take years for you to notice. Leadership positions, in particular, require a certain level of personal responsibility. The integrity of character is key. Here are five personality interview questions that will help you find the right person for the job.
How do you deal with adversity?
The first thing you want to know is how your potential leader will deal with adversity. It is no secret that all jobs have some measure of difficulties. Individuals in positions of leadership will have to deal with this far more often. Understanding how your candidate has handled and resolved difficult situations in the past will help you better anticipate future performance. Keep in mind that the right approach to tough situations can make or break your office morale.
You can lead, but can you follow?
Many people can lead other people just fine, but a truly great leader is also a great follower. Your executive must know when they should listen to advise and consult with you or other superiors. The better your candidate is at following instructions, the better they will be able to teach others to do the same.
Why do you want to lead?
You should know precisely why your candidate wants to lead. There are plenty of individuals out there who can, but that doesn’t mean their motivations are the best. Many people take a position for the wrong reasons, and you want to ensure that you can spot them. Asking this question helps determine if your candidate has a passion for leading and will do it well.
Where do you want to go with this?
This question has become a standard for interviews and with good reason. You want to know what your candidate ultimately wants from the job. Their aspirations and needs are important to understand, too. This question helps you get to know the candidate better on personal and professional levels. Even more than that, however, it will also determine where they fit in your company.
Do you have any questions for me?
Of all the personality interview questions, this is perhaps the most vital. This question helps you determine the level of curiosity your candidate has about the job. Even if you explained everything clearly, a simple question or request for clarification shows genuine interest. This, in turn, shows who is interested in your company and who is interested in any job they can find. Do not pass up this fundamental question.
The Right Person for the Job
The personality interview questions we have listed here will help you determine the right candidate for your company. A great resume is fantastic but having the right personality and drive to perform well is far more critical. Keep your ears tuned to the answers – they will determine the future of your company.