7 best job interview questions from successful entrepreneurs

1. "What do you want to get out of this experience?"

This interview question asks for a personal, authentic answer that contains more than just a simple “career development”. Based on the candidate’s response, you can probably estimate on which tasks and projects they would thrive. Happy people tend to be a lot more productive, will likely stick around longer, and will happily be ambassadors for your organisation.

2. "What is your dream job?"

This type of interview question gauges whether the candidate will fit in (and therefore stay) with your organisation. It also shows that you are interested in the candidate’s ambitions.

A talk about a man's dream job.

3. "Where do your ambitions lie?"

This question is a great way to find out how much the candidate has actually thought about their own life. From that, you’ll also be able to compare their ambitions with the ones of your organisation.

4. "How can you help this organisation move forward?""

This question allows the candidate to stand out from the rest. It’s important to find someone who doesn’t just have the qualifications but is also driven to help you take your organisation to the next level. The answer to this question will give you an idea of the research the candidate has done about your organisation.

5. "Which 3 adjectives describe your strengths?"

Candidates generally answer this question honestly. If you’re not sure, ask the candidate to support their answer with examples. Compare the answer with the most important traits and skills you have in mind for the position.

6. "What do you want to see on your cv within the next 3 years?"

The answer to this question will indicate the candidate’s personal objectives and whether they are in tune with yours. This answer also allows you to help the candidate grow in skills you both consider important.

7. "Which animal would you want to be?"

We’ve saved the best for last: the wacky question! “Would you rather be a knife or a fork?” The answer is irrelevant. But, it will tell you how the candidate reacts in an unexpected situation and whether the candidate can think creatively off the top of their head! You should put the candidate at ease after this question though: explain that there was no right or wrong answer. You don’t want to throw them off-balance or have them think their future employer is crazy! 😉