Why Great Hires Start with the Right Questions
Save your business from hiring mediocre talent by using this 7 point checklist
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Introduction
Expanding your team and hiring someone new?
Use this 7-point checklist to filter candidates not just for skill, but for true role alignment and long-term success:
01 - Relevant past experience
Look for hands-on experience that directly contributes to the role.
Not just years, but the kind of work they’ve done.
02 - Evidence in conversation
Evaluate how confidently they speak about their craft.
Do they understand the technicalities?
Can they break down jargon into simple ideas?
03 - Company size alignment
Check for cultural and operational fit. Someone from a company 5X bigger than yours may be used to systems, teams, and processes that your business doesn’t follow yet.
Look for people who’ve thrived in similar-sized environments.
04 - Industry match (if possible)
It's not mandatory, but a great bonus.
Hiring from within the same or a related industry saves ramp-up time.
05 - Attitude check via online presence
Do a light social media scan.
Avoid candidates with troll-like behavior, constant complaints, or negative patterns.
Prefer those who show curiosity, growth mindset, and professionalism, even online.
06 - Clarity of personal & professional goals
Ambitious people bring momentum to the team.
Ask:
“Where do you see yourself in 3 years?”
“What excites you about this opportunity?”
07 - Resume–Conversation consistency
Cross-check what’s written vs. what’s spoken.
Any major gaps, inconsistencies, or exaggerations should be red flags.
Final Tip:
Always look beyond just the skills.
You're hiring a mindset, a team player, and a culture fit — not just a resume.
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Prompt used to create the image for the note
P.S.: Image made on Meta AI using the prompt, “Imagine a young entrepreneur interviewing a middle aged executive for the business”