Whenever I interview a person (or interview for a job) I'm more interested in finding out about the personality and seeing if it's a good match. You have to ask a few of those BS type questions just to get a feel for the person. I find open ended questions that have nothing to do with the actual job are best. It's amazing how many people don't have responses for those simple sorts of questions. Or who answer them like my brother:
Them: "Why do you want to work here?"
Him: "Because I need money."
Them: "Why should we hire you?"
Him: "Because I'm the best."
In my experience, most people are not that talented in interviews and are not able to fake their way through it. Some can but there are hints that they might be putting you through the paces. Sometime you just get the feeling inside but kudos to them because they usually get hired, or at least recommended.
I find there are two interview styles (good ones at least):
1. Interviewing to get the job (say what they want to hear)
2. Interviewing for a job you'll enjoy (speak honestly)
My favorite question is still:
If you won the lottery, what would you do?
College grads and the people who need the job will generally answer it in some sort of responsible form. You can throw those people out immediately
. Otherwise you'll get an answer closer to "I wouldn't be working here". I also give bonus points for creativity during the interview. Actually now that I think about it, I've got a new question.
What is the laziest thing you've ever done at work?
I'm a really lazy person and happen to think that laziness can spark great creativity (think TV remote).
