Interview Questions

It is important for small business owners to ask important interview questions during the hiring process to make sure the best candidate is hired. With so many job seekers looking for new jobs these days, a small business owner has a great many prospects to choose from. One danger of a small business is that one bad employee can make or break the business. Every employee hired must be trustworthy and competent.

Please see the following list of questions recommended for use in interviewing applicants for jobs with small businesses:

• “Have you ever done anything dishonest as an employee?” This question gets to the heart of the matter regarding trust. The interviewer should watch for the physical reaction to the question for clues as to the level of honesty while listening to the answer.
• “How do you handle it when you do not get along with a co-worker?” This question lets the interviewer know how the applicant handles a stressful situation.
• “What does a small business have to offer that a large business does not?” The answer to this question tells the asker if the applicant understands that a small business needs an employee willing to go the extra mile for customers. Large businesses usually have more money and resources, so small businesses need to provide exceptional customer service.
• “Please provide a description of your current or last job.” This tells the interviewer what tasks the applicant is used to doing and is comfortable with.
• “How did you feel about your boss?” If the applicant talks badly about his/her supervisor, that is an indication that loyalty may not be a strong point. If the applicant maintains respect, that is a good sign.
• “Why are you leaving your current job or why did you leave your last job?” The answer to this question gives a good indication as to what the applicant’s expectations are for the job he/she is interviewing for.
• “If you had to describe my business to someone unfamiliar with it, what would you say?” The answer to this question will show how much preparation the applicant did before the interview.
• “Where do you see yourself in five years?” This question is used to find out how committed the applicant will be to the job if hired.
• “How would you handle the following situation if it occurred while you were in charge….?” Use a situation that is specific to the business. The answer will indicate how well the applicant can think on his / her feet and how much authority he/she is comfortable with.

At the conclusion of a good interview, the potential employer should know if the applicant is someone they want to hire. It is still recommended that all references are checked before any offer is given. If possible, a background check and credit check should also be conducted. These checks will provide valuable information and insight to confirm or contradict the impression given in the interview.