The job interview begins when you ask an unexpected question.
A job interview question that predicts how someone will lead:
“If you had to work for a leader who was outstanding in five of the following character traits, what are the top five traits you would pick?
- Creative
- Curious
- Driven for results
- Organized
- Kind
- Humorous
- Dedicated
- Relationship oriented
- Fair
- Fun
- Humble
- Bold
- Decisive
- Loves learning
- Perseverance
- Forgiving
- High energy
- Honest
- Stands up for their team
- Develops people
Follow up questions:
Ask the following questions after they circle the top five traits they desire in leaders.
#1. Please define each trait you chose and give an example of a leader you admire who exemplifies that trait.
The people we admire reveal what’s important to us. For example, you might admire Michael Jordan for his work ethic.
#2. Notice some traits that are important to you that your candidate didn’t choose and ask, “Why didn’t you choose ‘bold’?” for example.
Create your own list:
Include the essential qualities you want in leaders. When you’re working toward collaborative leadership, include qualities essential for collaborative leadership. When accountability is a top trait you want to see, add things like:
- Brings up tough issues
- Holds people accountable
- Always follows through
- Never drops the ball
Use the team:
Choose an essential leadership trait you want in future leaders. Say, “Imagine you have a team member who struggles to make decisions. How would you help them get better at this?”
Listen for behavioral solutions, not theories.
Involve the current team:
Ask your team to create a list of the five top leadership qualities they would love to see in a new team member. Ask them to define their terms and give examples.
Use their list in the job interview.
What are some of the best job interview questions?
Still curious:
10 Surprising Job Interview Questions that Identify the Right People