Structured Interview Sample

Use the same set of questions for all candidates applying for the same position. Unless you use organized scripts, you can fall into the trap of spending your precious time talking about things that have little to do with the job, such as hobbies. We identified the key characteristics we need to see in Planet team members, and we ask the candidates questions about how they have demonstrated those qualities in previous jobs or school. These structured interviews produce answers with high “signal value” about who the candidates really are. We don’t use any goofy puzzles or trick questions—just straightforward inquiries about the person’s instincts and habits.

*Disclaimer: employment laws vary by jurisdiction. I encourage you to run your interview templates by a good attorney.

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Structured Interview Script

1. Why are you talking with us today?

2. Did you visit our website before your interview today?

3. What appeals to you about our company as a place for you to work?

4. Tell me about a time you went beyond the call of duty at a previous job.

5. Tell me about a time you made a mistake at work. How did you feel? What did you do about it?

6. How would you describe your personality?

7. Have you ever been fired from a job?

8. What experience have you had with a manager that wanted you to do something that you disagreed with?

1. What song best describes your work ethic?

2. Can you name three Nobel Peace Prize winners?

1. Work related or not, tell me about something you are/were really good at that you can prove with a statistic, award, title, recognition, or some other validation.

2. What do you think is your greatest accomplishment?

3. What was difficult in your life that you had to push through?

4. Do you have any goals? Are they written?

5. What gives you energy and what drains it?

1. How organized are you?

2. Do you ever write hand-written thank you notes? If so, why, when?

COMMUNICATION | good writer | professional appearance | smile | authoritative speaking

1. Do you have any techniques you use to be a good listener?

Miscellaneous:

1. What is your understanding of what this position requires?

2. How did you find out that we had an opening?

3. If we offered you a position, when you would be able to start?

4. Do you smoke or vape?

5. Do you have any special needs, limitations, or schedule that we should know about?