Here are 3 powerful questions to ask tech talent that pack a punch of information in a prescreen call or interview. Keep these questions in mind and know what to listen for!

1. “What Tech Stack Are You Most Proficient In?”

This is often a manager’s biggest concern, and it’s a great way to open up the discussion of what your candidate is working on, where their technical expertise falls, and whether their skills align with your project requirements. Listen for relevant technologies, tools, and languages, their depth of knowledge and deep understanding of the tech stack as opposed to surface-level familiarity, and their willingness to learn new technologies and adapt to an evolving industry.

2. “Can You Describe a Challenging Problem You’ve Solved?”

Use this question to assess problem-solving skills. Listen for detail in their explanation of the problem, their role in solving it, and the outcome. Further assess how well the candidate collaborated with a team and took responsibility. If you’re lucky, this question can further show a candidate’s desire for continuous improvement and growth in their field.

3. “Can You Tell Me About Your Career Goals?”

Understanding a candidate’s career aspirations can provide insights into their long-term commitment and how well they align with your company’s growth. Listen for how the candidate’s goals align with the potential career paths within your organization. Are they enthusiastic about advancing their skills, taking on more significant responsibilities, or contributing to the company’s growth? Lastly, evaluate if the candidate’s goals indicate a desire to grow and stay with the company for the long term.

The answers to these questions will also provide a window into a candidate’s soft skills like communication and adaptability. By focusing on their technical proficiency, problem-solving abilities, and their alignment with the company’s growth, you’ll be better equipped to identify the perfect fit for your team.