Do you need final interview questions to ask candidates during the interview process? Employers can use this template to find examples of good questions to ask during the final round of an interview.
An overview of how to conduct a final interview
It takes a few steps to make a successful hiring decision: the screening of resumes, two or more rounds of interviews, and, in some cases, skill-based assessments. Make your offer of employment contingent upon a final interview with qualified candidates.
Typically, a shortlist of two to three candidates will be interviewed by the CEO in the final round. If the hiring manager, the team leader, and the CEO were not involved in previous interviews, consider gathering a group of interviewers to reach a more objective decision. Tell candidates that this is the final round and who they will meet when you invite them. Ensure that you prepare final interview questions that will address any questions any member of your team may have. Long-term partnerships are identified through final interviews: people who understand and share your company’s vision
A value system. A candidate who has reached this stage of the hiring process is already qualified for the position. Consider hiring candidates who will not only accomplish the task at hand, but will also provide fresh ideas, be great team players, and ultimately contribute to the success of your company.
Make contact with rejected candidates via email or phone after the candidate you chose accepts your job offer.
Candidates should be asked the following questions at the end of the interview:
- What salary expectations do you have now that you have gained a better understanding of the full scope of the position?
- In the event that you were hired, how would you like to grow within the organization? What would you do if you were in your position?
- Is there anything outside of work that interests you?
- What has been your experience with candidates so far? If you were to apply for this position again, why would you do so?
- If you were to quit here within the first month, what would cause you to do so?
- Would you be able to begin working for us as soon as possible?
- Could you please let us know if you have any questions?
Assessment of final round interviews: how to evaluate candidates’ answers
- The final interview is a good opportunity to discuss things like salary, how much notice they need to give their current employer, and hours/days of work, even if you have previously discussed potential deal breakers.
- The cost of losing a new employee too soon is both time-consuming and costly. Determine which candidates have long-term career goals that are compatible with those of your organization.
- It can be difficult to choose between two or three qualified candidates. Consider what it would be like if each candidate worked for your organization. Which team member would be able to collaborate more effectively with their colleagues? In order to achieve goals, who would put their best foot forward?
- Question candidates to determine whether they understand the needs and objectives of your organization. Those individuals are more likely to adapt to their new position quickly and perform better.
- Make your hiring decision based on the information you gathered throughout the hiring process. Suppose you are hiring for an entry-level position and your candidate did not submit the perfect assignment, but he or she demonstrates enthusiasm and is eager to learn.
Flags of concern
- There are no questions they would like to ask you. The candidate’s desire to learn more about your company, their team, and the next steps of the process is evident when they ask additional questions about the position, your company, and the next steps.
- There is an absence of professionalism on their part. The previous interview rounds may have broken the ice, but this does not mean the final interview should be arrogant or too casual, especially if the CEO is present.
- Inconsistency is evident in their behavior. You should be concerned if you notice significant changes in a candidate’s behavior from their first interview to their final interview. That may indicate that they have not revealed their true personalities.
- There are last-minute limitations/requests presented by them. There is a risk of future collaboration if candidates choose during their final interview to share some limitations they have not previously mentioned (e.g. “I have to leave work every day at 4 p.m. due to X”) or significantly alter their salary expectations.
- Their enthusiasm is lacking. If a candidate is invited for a final interview, he or she knows there is a high probability that they will be hired. They may be reconsidering the position or using your organization as a springboard for a change in career if they display a passive attitude and lack of energy. Make an effort to determine how motivated they are, but don’t be fast to reject candidates who could be shy or simply inexpressive.
