A job interview is not just a formality. It’s a chance to understand who a person is in their natural state. Well-thought-out interview questions create a dialogue that is both purposeful and human. Here are some of our best job interview questions and key considerations to keep in mind when preparing for an interview to help you make informed, values-based decisions.

Start with Core Questions

A good interview isn’t just about reading from a list, but it’s still wise to prepare a set of core questions to guide the conversation. By asking the same baseline questions to every candidate, you can later compare responses more objectively. This structure also helps avoid bias and supports fairer decision-making. The rest of the conversation can evolve naturally from there.

Value-Based Questions: Is the Candidate a Cultural Fit?

Today’s employers are looking for more than just skills. They want people who align with their company’s values. Value-based questions and scenario prompts help assess whether a candidate thinks and acts in ways that align with your team’s values.

Ask questions like:

  • What are your core work-related values?
  • Describe a situation where you had to make a difficult but principled decision.
  • What motivates you most in your professional life?

These kinds of questions help you determine whether the candidate’s worldview and working style align with your company culture.

Job Interview Questions That Nudge Candidates Out of Their Comfort Zone

The most insightful answers often come when candidates feel safe enough to be real and forget their rehearsed “correct” answers. That’s why it’s essential to keep the interview conversational, yet focused. When a candidate feels heard and respected, their true self emerges – and that’s what you need to see.

Deep questions help candidates ground themselves, calm down, and be fully present. Sometimes, even if the candidate isn’t selected, they leave grateful for the clarity the conversation gave them. A thoughtful interview can offer a valuable perspective for the candidate’s professional path.

Don’t be afraid of unexpected or unconventional questions, because they can relieve tension and reveal how a candidate reacts when caught off guard. These aren’t questions with any “right” answers. They’re meant to foster honest dialogue. We all know that interviews can be stressful and a spontaneous question about politics, current events, or something totally unrelated can break the pressure and shift focus. You’ll learn how the candidate handles unpredictability.

An Interview Is a Dialogue, Not a Monologue

Don’t forget that an interview is a two-way street. While you’re evaluating the candidate, they’re also assessing whether your company is right for them. Create a safe, open atmosphere where ideas and questions can flow freely. When the conversation is relaxed yet purposeful, both sides gain a clearer picture of the potential collaboration.

The key to a successful interview lies in well-prepared, thoughtful questions. Ask with confidence and with kindness. The most valuable answers come when candidates feel free to be themselves. That’s how you make a decision based not only on skills or a CV but on the person behind them.

Need help preparing for interviews, coming up with job interview questions or running your recruitment process?

Get in touch! We’ll help you find the right people for the right roles. We’ve also prepared a comprehensive cheat sheet with 70 sample questions, which you can find here.