Three Great Job Interview Questions

Posted on: 2011-03-20

Three Great Job Interview Questions:

Everyone has heard the standard interview questions. Why do you want to work for this company? What motivates you? What is your greatest strength? The problem with these questions is that everyone has a standard answer. Asking non-traditional, possibly silly questions can provide insight into an individual’s intellect, background, and motivation.

Q: Ask a candidate what their parents or siblings do for a living?

A. It is not uncommon for an individual to follow the same career path as their parents or siblings. Although this is not always the case, one could argue that success breed’s success.

Q: Does the candidate do his/her own taxes?

A. This question appears on several personality tests that candidates often take after finishing the interview process. The idea is that an individual that uses someone else to help them complete their own taxes values the insight of others and is more adept to being a team player.

Q: Ask the candidate why are city street manhole covers round?

A. This is a question that Microsoft is notorious for asking throughout their interview process. The answer is two fold. Manhole covers are round so that they have no way of falling into the manhole. In addition, a manhole cover is round because it is easier to move (it can be rolled rather than having to pick it up). Any one who can answer this question knows how to think on their feet!

LC KIRK is a diversified search and placement firm focused on sales and marketing executives within the financial services industry. We offer you and your firm a complete recruiting strategy through competitive intelligence, industry relationships, in-depth research, and strategic planning.