Interviewing Techniques

with Barbara Bruno

General Interview Outline and Questions

Tell candidates that you don’t want to waste their time. Explain that the more you understand what’s
important to them, the easier it will be for you to find jobs that align with their goals. The result will be
better matches and more hires.
When you conduct a general interview, focus on what’s most important to the candidate. Ask for
definitions of words used throughout the interview. For example, the word “advancement” could
mean more money, a higher-level position, or additional responsibilities.

Opening
My name is _________________. It’s very nice to meet you. I enjoyed reviewing your resume and look
forward to this interview. I want to ask questions that help me determine what’s most important to you
at this point in your career.

Let’s start out with why you are interested in changing jobs.
• What are the five changes you would make if you were your boss?

• Why have you made changes in the past, and what must be there for you to make a change today?

• What job did you like most, and why?

• What job did you like least, and why?

Verify experience and credentials—consider testing to verify skills.

• Review experience and credentials for the past 10 years.

• Ask follow-up questions to clarify the answers provided.

• Ask about their accomplishments and their impact on past employers.

Do you want to do the same job?

• What percentage of the time do you spend on each responsibility of your job?

• What percentage of the time do you want to do specific responsibilities in your next job?

• Where do you see yourself five years from now?

• Do you have a talent or skill that is not being currently utilized?

What type of person do you enjoy working for?

• Who has been your favorite boss, and why?

• Who has been your least favorite boss, and why?

Interviewing Techniques with Barbara Bruno

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What is your history of turning down job offers?
• Have you turned down any offers? Why?

• Are you considering any other offers? If so, for what type of job?

Timeline
• What is your timeline?

• Is there anything that would prevent you from handing in a two-week notice?

Open for questions—look for level of interest.

• What questions do you have?

• Why are you interested in this position?

• What is your salary range?

• What benefits are most important to you?

• Why are you interested in working for our company?

• What would you do if your company gave you a counteroffer?

• What other opportunities are you considering?

• On a level from 1 to 10, what is your level of interest in our position?

Last question
• Is there anything that you feel is important that we haven’t discussed?

Describe next steps, such as subsequent interviews.

• Ask about the compensation package desired and describe the current coverage and costs.

• Ask if there are any concerns.

• Ask if other offers are being considered.

Provide closure for every candidate interviewed.

• Follow up with feedback.

• If candidate is screened out, provided them with resources.

• Ensure a positive candidate experience.

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