Closed Questions vs Open Questions #2
Closed Question 1: “Do you have sales experience?”
Why are these open questions better?
This question invites storytelling. Instead of a simple yes or no, the candidate can explain how they learned, what mistakes they made, and how they grew professionally. This reveals not only their skills but also their ability for reflection and continuous improvement.
Here we look for concrete evidence. The interviewee must recall specific cases, which allows the interviewer to evaluate their practical experience. Additionally, it shows how the candidate thinks about applying their knowledge in real contexts.
This question delves into the candidate’s self-assessment. By asking for key learnings, they are given the opportunity to show professional maturity, identify strengths and areas for improvement, and demonstrate how they have evolved in their field.
Closed Question 2: “Have you led teams before?”
Why are these open questions better?
With this question, we seek to understand the candidate’s methodology. Not just whether they’ve led, but how they did it. This allows us to evaluate if their approach is compatible with the company culture and if they have real tools to handle complex situations.
This question reveals the candidate’s self-awareness. A good leader knows their style and its implications. The answer can show empathy, clarity in decision-making, and the ability to adapt to different types of collaborators.
Challenges are a window into character. This question allows us to understand how the candidate reacts to adversity, what they learned from their mistakes, and how they’ve overcome obstacles. It’s key to evaluating resilience and learning ability.
Closed Question 3: “Do you know how to use Excel?”
Why are these open questions better?
This question goes beyond technical knowledge. It allows us to understand the context in which the tool was used, the frequency of use, and the relevance of the tasks performed. It’s a way to evaluate the depth of the candidate’s mastery.
With this question, we seek to understand the candidate’s analytical ability. It’s not just about knowing how to use the tools, but whether they can transform data into useful information. This is key in roles that require data-driven decision-making.
This question evaluates the candidate’s adaptability. In a world of constant technological change, it’s important to know if the interviewee is willing and able to learn new tools to improve their productivity and efficiency.
Closed Question 4: “Do you speak Spanish?”
Why are these open questions better?
This question evaluates the functionality of the language at work. It’s not enough to know it; you have to know how to use it. It allows us to understand if the candidate can communicate effectively in real situations, such as meetings, emails, or presentations.
This question seeks cultural empathy and adaptation skills. Working in multilingual environments requires sensitivity toward other cultures and the ability to communicate with people from different backgrounds. It’s key in global companies.
With this question, we evaluate the candidate’s proactivity. Learning a language never ends. Those who seek constant improvement demonstrate commitment, curiosity, and a growth mindset.
Closed Question 5: “Can you work under pressure?”
Why are these open questions better?
This question seeks a concrete methodology. It’s not enough to say yes; you have to demonstrate how you act in practice. It allows us to understand if the candidate has effective techniques to maintain quality and composure in critical moments.
Prioritization is a key skill in any role. This question reveals the candidate’s ability to make quick decisions, identify what’s most important, and manage their time efficiently under pressure.
This question delves into the candidate’s personal history. It allows us to understand how they’ve grown professionally through challenges, what they learned from their mistakes, and how they’ve developed resilience to face difficult situations.
🔍 Depth
Open questions allow us to explore beyond the surface, revealing hidden thoughts, experiences, and skills.
🧠 Critical Thinking
They invite reflection, analysis, and structured 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.