As an interviewer, it’s important to get a sense of how a candidate thinks and handles unexpected situations. Asking questions that challenge a candidate’s comfort zone can provide valuable insights into their problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and overall approach to work. Here are ten questions to consider asking to get candidates out of their comfort zone:
- Can you give me an example of a time when you had to think on your feet and come up with a solution quickly?
In the workplace, there will inevitably be times when unexpected problems arise and quick thinking is required to find a solution. Asking a candidate to give an example of a time when they had to think on their feet can provide insight into their ability to handle pressure and find creative solutions.
- Have you ever had to confront a superior or challenge their decision? How did you handle it?
In any organization, it’s important for employees to feel comfortable speaking up and voicing their opinions, even if it means challenging the ideas of a superior. Asking a candidate about a time when they had to confront a superior or challenge their decision can provide insight into their assertiveness and ability to communicate their ideas effectively.
- Can you give me an example of a time when you had to work on a project that you did not agree with? How did you handle it?
Disagreements and differing viewpoints are a normal part of any work environment. Asking a candidate about a time when they had to work on a project that they did not agree with can provide insight into their ability to set aside personal biases and work towards a common goal.
- How do you handle feedback, whether positive or negative?
Receiving feedback, whether positive or negative, is an important part of professional development. Asking a candidate about their approach to feedback can provide insight into their ability to learn and grow from constructive criticism and handle praise gracefully.
- Can you give me an example of a time when you had to go above and beyond in your work?
Asking a candidate about a time when they had to go above and beyond in their work can provide insight into their dedication to their job and their willingness to take on additional responsibilities.
- Have you ever had to work with a difficult team member or client? How did you handle it?
Working with difficult people is a reality of any job. Asking a candidate about a time when they had to work with a difficult team member or client can provide insight into their ability to maintain professional relationships and effectively communicate in challenging situations.
- Can you tell me about a time when you had to adapt to a new situation or challenge at work?
The ability to adapt to new situations and challenges is an important skill in any job. Asking a candidate about a time when they had to adapt to a new situation can provide insight into their flexibility and open-mindedness.
- Have you ever had to handle a high-pressure situation at work? How did you handle it?
High-pressure situations are a reality of many jobs, and it’s important for employees to be able to handle them effectively. Asking a candidate about a time when they had to handle a high-pressure situation can provide insight into their ability to remain calm and focused under stress.
- Can you give me an example of a time when you had to balance competing priorities in your work?
Juggling multiple tasks and priorities is a common challenge in many jobs. Asking a candidate about a time when they had to balance competing priorities can provide insight into their ability to prioritize and manage their time effectively.
- Have you ever had to make a decision that you later regretted? How did you handle it?
Everyone makes mistakes, and it’s important for employees to be able to learn from them. Asking a candidate about a time when they had to make a decision that they later regretted can provide insight into their ability to admit their mistakes, learn from them, and move on.
Asking these types of questions during an interview can provide valuable insight into a candidate’s approach to work and ability to handle unexpected situations. While it’s important to have a structured interview process and ask consistent questions, don’t be afraid to throw in a few curveballs to see how candidates respond and think on their feet. Overall, these types of questions can help you get a better sense of a candidate’s fit for your organization and their potential to thrive in a dynamic work environment.
