monster career card

Monster.com: More Than Just A Job Posting Site

by Anne Middleton, on October 8th, 2014

Monster.com is simply the easiest online job posting service and the best way to attract elite candidates.  And, as the most recognized job search engine, Monster.com is always “top of mind” with job seekers.  Monster.com not only draws the finest candidates to your establishment, Monster can also assist you throughout the entire interview process. 

Monster.com understands your goal is to find the most qualified applicant to become a valued and contributing member of your team.  These 5 tips will provide you with targeted questions to pinpoint “cream of the crop."


1. What can you do for us that other candidates cannot?
Many interviewers inquire “What are you greatest strengths?” Instead, a more efficient manner to explore a person’s potential is by probing with the question, “What can you do for us that others cannot?” By posing the subject in this superior manner, you will expose how the interviewee perceives themselves as unique.  This inquiry will allow insight into their experiences, skills and abilities. If the candidate is not concise in their response, it may indicate they do not have a clear vision of their strengths.


2. Why do you want to work here?
Preparation is fundamental in any career.  When requesting this information, listen closely for an answer that indicates the candidate has investigated your company and given thought to their place in the organization.  You do not want to employ someone who is sending out resumes just because there is an opening that “sounds good.”


3. When were you most satisfied in your previous job?
Your main objective during the interview process is to hire a new addition to your staff that shares the same values and aspires to becoming a long-term employee. Revealing their motivation will provide beneficial insight.

If the interviewee can relate a concrete example of a project where they were proud and excited, you will better grasp what stimulates and inspires them in the workplace.  Conversely, if they ramble and their response seems chaotic, they may not have a clear vision of their competences.


4. Describe Your Ideal Work Environment
Every company has its own personality.  During the interview process, you may encounter numerous candidates who are qualified on paper to join your organization.  However, it is a “cultural fit” with the corporation that is often the best indicator of success. By asking the interviewee to describe their idyllic work surroundings, you will be provided with valuable information for your assessment.

For example, you will improve your knowledge of the candidate if you know they are most comfortable in a small entrepreneurial establishment, or if they will thrive best in a structured or an informal setting, their philosophy of work/life balance and other constructive data. 

5. Do you have any questions for me?
The response to this question will be extremely revealing. If the potential worker says “I have no questions,” it could indicate a lack of interest, an inflated sense of themselves or worse yet, a lack of ambition.  You want to be impressed, but not overwhelmed when you present this inquiry to a future hire. You would anticipate questions such as:
• What is the biggest challenge I will face in this position? (This shows the initiative that they want to properly prepare to meet expectations)
• What types of training opportunities do you offer? (A good indication the prospective co-worker wants to advance their skills and add further value to the organization)
• How does this role relate to the overall structure of the organization? (A promising inquiry that they are interested in teamwork and contributing)
• Can you walk me through the typical day of someone in this role? (A sign that they possess a clear understanding of the scope of the job)