Closed-ended vs. Open-ended Questions During Job Interviews #3 Mentoring Program

🧑‍🏫 #3 Open Questions in Mentoring Sessions

Closed Questions vs Open Questions #3

Mentoring Program
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Closed Question 1: “Is there an onboarding program?”

First example of open question ❓🤔
“How does the integration process work for new employees?”
Second example of open question 🗣️💭
“What does a new employee typically learn in their first weeks?”
Third example of open question 🤷‍♂️❓
“Could you describe how new team members are supported during their adaptation?”

Why are these open questions better?

“How does the integration process work for new employees?”

This question invites a detailed description of the process. Instead of a simple yes or no, it allows understanding of the stages, responsible parties, resources used, and duration of the program. It reveals the structure and importance the company gives to integrating new talent.

“What does a new employee typically learn in their first weeks?”

With this question, we seek to understand the actual content of onboarding. It allows us to learn what knowledge, skills, or behaviors are considered priorities for a new team member. It’s key to evaluating whether the process is effective and relevant.

“Could you describe how new team members are supported during their adaptation?”

This question delves into the human aspect of the process. It allows understanding what type of support new employees receive, whether there are mentors, what resources they have available, and how their questions are resolved. It shows the company’s level of commitment to their initial development.

Closed Question 2: “Is a mentor assigned when starting?”

First example of open question ❓🤔
“How is knowledge transfer handled between senior and junior employees?”
Second example of open question 🗣️💭
“What role do more experienced employees play in developing new talent?”
Third example of open question 🤷‍♂️❓
“Could you explain how professional support is structured within the team?”

Why are these open questions better?

“How is knowledge transfer handled between senior and junior employees?”

This question goes beyond the existence of a mentor. It allows understanding of the actual learning mechanisms, whether there are formal sessions, documentation, on-the-job observation, or informal exchange. It reveals the company’s learning culture.

“What role do more experienced employees play in developing new talent?”

With this question, we seek to understand the shared responsibility in professional growth. It allows understanding whether senior employees are motivated to guide, what incentives they have, and how their contribution to team development is recognized.

“Could you explain how professional support is structured within the team?”

This question evaluates the planning of development. It allows understanding whether support is systematic, whether there are defined objectives, how progress is measured, and what resources are used. It’s key to evaluating whether the team is prepared to grow sustainably.

Closed Question 3: “Does mentoring continue after the initial period?”

First example of open question ❓🤔
“How does the mentoring relationship evolve over time?”
Second example of open question 🗣️💭
“What type of professional support do employees receive after their initial period?”
Third example of open question 🤷‍♂️❓
“Could you share examples of successful mentoring relationships in the company?”

Why are these open questions better?

“How does the mentoring relationship evolve over time?”

This question seeks to understand the dynamic nature of mentoring. It allows understanding whether the relationship adapts to changing needs, whether it becomes a networking opportunity or strategic guidance. It reveals the maturity of the professional development program.

“What type of professional support do employees receive after their initial period?”

With this question, we seek to identify ongoing development resources. It allows understanding whether there is additional training, performance evaluations, career plans, or new growth opportunities. It’s key to evaluating long-term commitment to talent.

“Could you share examples of successful mentoring relationships in the company?”

This question invites sharing concrete stories. It allows understanding real cases of professional development, factors that contributed to success, and how impact was measured. It’s a powerful way to understand the mentoring culture and its real value to the organization.

🔍 Depth

Open questions allow exploring beyond the surface, revealing hidden thoughts, experiences, and skills.

🧠 Critical Thinking

They invite reflection, analysis, and structuring responses, showing how the candidate processes information and makes decisions.

💬 Communication

They reveal the ability to express oneself clearly, organize ideas, and convey messages effectively.

🌟 Authenticity

They allow the candidate to show their true self, without fitting into prefabricated answers or clichés.

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