Closed Questions vs Open Questions #4
Closed Question 1: “Are there problems in the department?”
Why are these open questions better?
This question invites exploring the team’s real difficulties. Instead of a simple yes or no, it allows understanding concrete challenges, helping to grasp the work environment and assess whether the candidate has the necessary skills to face them.
Here we look for evidence of resilience and growth. The interviewee must recall specific cases of overcoming challenges, allowing the interviewer to evaluate the team’s ability to adapt and improve in the face of adversity.
This question delves into the interviewee’s practical experience. By asking for a specific situation and its resolution, it evaluates analytical ability, decision-making, and conflict management, key aspects in any professional role.
Closed Question 2: “Are there clear objectives for the position?”
Why are these open questions better?
With this question, we seek to understand the real expectations of the position. Not just whether there are objectives, but what they are and how they are measured. This allows evaluating whether the candidate has a clear vision of what is expected of them and if they align with the company’s values.
This question reveals the interviewee’s self-awareness. A good professional knows the key competencies of their role. The answer can show empathy, clarity in decision-making, and the ability to identify strengths and areas for improvement in the team.
Achievements are a window into potential. This question allows understanding how successes are recognized and valued in the company, what type of results are expected, and how professional growth is fostered. It’s key to evaluating the candidate’s motivation.
Closed Question 3: “Does the role change frequently?”
Why are these open questions better?
This question goes beyond the stability of the role. It allows understanding the growth and transformation of the position, revealing the company’s ability to adapt to new needs and how it values employee professional development.
With this question, we seek to understand the interviewee’s strategic vision. Not just whether they know what changes are coming, but if they’re prepared to face them. This is key in roles requiring anticipation, planning, and continuous adaptation.
This question evaluates organizational culture. In a constantly changing world, it’s important to know if the team fosters innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. It allows understanding if the candidate will fit into a dynamic and proactive environment.
🔍 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 responses or clichés.