As a hiring manager, finding the right person for your team is crucial. Let’s dive into four factors to consider when interviewing job candidates.

1. Thoughtfulness of Answers

When interviewing candidates, pay attention to the thoughtfulness of their answers. If they quickly jump into responding without taking a moment to contemplate, it may indicate that they haven’t truly considered the question in-depth. Thoughtful answers require time to process and formulate coherent responses.

2. Embrace Cultural Add

While many organizations talk about “cultural fit,” consider focusing on “cultural add.” Cultural fit looks for candidates who align with existing team members, while cultural add seeks to bring in diverse perspectives that contribute something unique to the company culture. To identify potential “adds,” observe the candidate’s personality style using the DISC model (Dominant, Influencing, Supportive, and Conscientious). Aim to diversify your team by introducing personalities that provide something new to the existing dynamics.

3. Assess Willingness to Learn

Evaluate whether the job candidates demonstrate a willingness to learn from their past experiences. Look for instances where they were open to learning new things or admitted not knowing something but showed eagerness to acquire the knowledge. A candidate who values continuous learning is an asset to any organization and can drive growth and innovation.

4. Encourage Honesty

Honesty is a crucial trait to look for in potential employees. Candidates who admit when they don’t know something are displaying a genuine attitude and are more trustworthy. If they don’t lie with a job on the line, chances are they won’t lie once they have the job. Also, avoid hiring candidates who seem to have an answer for everything, as this may indicate a reluctance to acknowledge their limitations and could lead to challenges in teamwork.

Finding the right candidate goes beyond skills and qualifications. Assessing their thoughtfulness, cultural fit, willingness to learn, and honesty can lead to better hiring decisions and a more cohesive team. By following these tips, you can enhance your screening process, find candidates who align with your organization’s values, and build a diverse, engaged, and high-performing team. Remember, hiring the right people is a vital investment in the success of your company.