Recruitment is a tough activity to get right and can be very expensive if you don't. Dealing with such a broad range of companies in the UK, and also internationally, I see a lot of different approaches to recruitment and the types of interviews that businesses deliver.

Whilst every recruitment process needs to be consistent and robust, I am a firm believer that it should be an enjoyable experience for both candidate and employer. This includes creating a welcoming environment that promotes engagement, openness and honesty.

It is always interesting to read the favourite interview questions that CEO's use as their deciders. What would be your top and bottom 3 that you would ask and stay well away from?

My top 3 would be;

1. What's one thing you would do differently in life and why? 

A great question to open the lid on a candidate's interest in self-reflection and personal development. 

2. What is their dream for themselves? 

Always interesting to understand a candidate's personal vision and the level of stretch they want to achieve for themselves. Can you help them achieve it?

3. If you were to walk on stage, what theme song would be playing?

I love music and can get to understand a person from the music they like. We are a music sharing bunch at Collingwood and so apathy to tunes would not fit in.


My bottom 3 would be;

1. Tell me about yourself?

This is such a lazy question for an interviewer to ask. Surely you can be more interested in a candidate and ask them a more specific question that they can excel at?

2. What are your weaknesses?

Really? In what context and surely you would be opening the door to glibness?

3. Why would you like to work for us?

Bit of an arrogant question. Funnily enough all recruitment processes should be 2 way and 50/50. I am hoping you would only ask this question when you have invested time to inform the candidate all about your business, culture, the role, the opportunities etc.

Whatever questions you ask please ensure you provide an enjoyable experience, respect the candidate and provide them with an opportunity to shine.

Feel free to get in touch if you would like to find out more.