Five Good Questions to Ask in a Job Interview

As an employer, deciding on appropriate interview questions can be a challenge. It's important to find a candidate with the right qualifications for the job, but one should also take into account possible personality clashes when it comes to interoffice relationships.

Good questions to ask an interviewee should allow the potential employer to gauge not only what their qualifications and work ethic are, but also to see how well they handle challenges and diversity. The following is a list of five good questions to ask in any interview.

1. What do you like to do in your down time? This may seem like a personal question, but it's also a good way to put the candidate at ease and establish rapport. How they answer and what their answer is could also help indicate if they're the type of employee you're looking for. For example, someone interested in barhopping and throwing parties may raise a red flags for absenteeism and tardiness. Also be wary of anyone who says they don't have down time. If they're not lying, they're likely working too much and could be at risk for burnout.

2. What has been your most memorable work experience to date and why? This question gives insight into what types of environments the potential employee excels in and enjoys. This doesn't mean they won't do well with the job you're offering, but it will clue you in as to whether or not they'd be happy in the environment you're hiring for.

3. Have you ever had a problem with a co-worker and if so, how did you handle it? This question helps the interviewer discern if the candidate gets along well with others in general and if they're able to handle an office disagreement or conflict in a mature, professional way.

4. On average, how many hours a week are you currently (or were most recently) working and what did a regular day look like for you? As the interviewer, you know how many hours the job you're interviewing requires. A candidate used to working a 20 hour work week may have a hard time adjusting to a position requiring 40 or more hours, or someone used to working many hours may struggle with structure and time management. Conversely, this person may be ready for a challenge or have some extraordinary time management skills. Asking how they used their time will offer information on how effective they are at utilizing the hours of their work day.

5. Why do you want this position? Asking this question will likely give some information as to what the candidate is looking for. Even if the candidate says they need a job to pay the bills, it might point towards the fact that they're honest and motivated to work hard for a paycheck. It might also give you some information as to what their impression of your company is and if they'll be able to take pride in the work they do if they should get the position.