Unlocking Effective Prescreening: Key Questions to Ask during Pre-employment Screening

What technical certifications or degrees do you possess?

Technical certifications or degrees provide a way to validate a candidate's technical skills and knowledge. Whether it's a degree in computer science or a certification in a specific technology tool, these qualifications can provide insights into a candidate's technical proficiency. Remember to follow up with why or how these qualifications have served them in their roles in the past.

Do you have experience with remote desktop applications?

In today's remote work environment, experience with remote desktop applications has become increasingly important. This could range from providing tech support remotely, setting up a remote work environment, or troubleshooting problems on a remote server. No matter the specifics of your job posting, understanding how a candidate has utilized these tools in the past can be insightful.

Can you describe a situation where you had to troubleshoot a complex technology issue?

This question can help shed light on a candidate's problem-solving skills and their ability to think critically under pressure. What was the issue? How did they approach it? How did they finally resolve it? The answers to these questions can provide insights into how a candidate deals with difficult technical challenges.

What types of software, hardware, or networking issues are you most experienced in resolving?

Understanding what a candidate is most comfortable with can help pinpoint whether their abilities align with the job role. It can also expose areas where additional training may be required, so be sure to ask for specific examples of issues they've resolved.

How do you stay updated on the latest trends and advancements in the tech industry?

The technology sector is rapidly evolving, and staying up-to-date is crucial. Whether it's attending seminars, reading relevant publications, or participating in online forums, get a sense of how a candidate keeps their knowledge current.

Are you experienced with any coding languages or software development?

Even for non-developer roles, a basic understanding of coding languages can be beneficial. This question can help you understand a candidate's level of technical competence, which can provide a more complete overview of their skills.

Can you discuss a time when you helped a tech novice understand a complex issue?

Collaboration and communication across different skill levels are important qualities in a tech professional. This question will reveal a candidate's ability to break down complex technical concepts into understandable language, demonstrating their communication skills and patience.

What is your methodology for troubleshooting technical issues?

Understanding a candidate's troubleshooting methodology can provide insights into their problem-solving skills and their ability to handle technical issues. This can also reflect their systematic thinking and logical reasoning abilities.

Are you comfortable with recording and documenting technical issues and resolutions?

Documentation is a crucial part of any IT role. This question can help identify candidates who understand the importance of maintaining clear records, enhancing communication, and ensuring knowledge transfer within the team.

Have you ever provided technical assistance remotely? Can you describe your experience with help desk ticketing systems?

These questions can gauge a candidate's familiarity with key tools used for remote technical assistance and their ability to work independently when resolving issues.

Can you describe a time when you had to handle a frustrated or irate customer?

This question assesses a candidate's interpersonal skills. It can highlight how empathetic, patient, and solution-oriented a candidate is when dealing with challenging situations.

Are you familiar with our products or similar technologies?

Knowing whether a candidate has prior experience or familiarity with your products can provide a benchmark for how quickly they will be able to become competent in your specific work environment.

What steps do you usually follow when troubleshooting a technical issue?

Understanding a candidate's approach to resolving technical issues can give perspective on their logical reasoning abilities and their systematic approach towards problem-solving.

What kind of IT infrastructure are you most experienced with?

This question can help you measure a candidate's proficiency with various aspects of IT infrastructure – such as networking, servers, databases, or security – and gauge their fit for the role.

What is your approach to handle conflicting priorities or multiple open cases?

Everyone faces multiple priorities and deadlines. Knowing how a candidate manages their time and prioritizes tasks can help you understand their work style and see if it aligns with your team's needs.

Are you comfortable working in a fast-paced technical environment?

The tech industry often demands fast-paced work, adaptability, and quick learning. This question will help you gauge a candidate's adaptability and comfort in such environments.

How do you manage and prioritize your workload?

Knowing how a candidate organizes and prioritizes their work can offer information about their self-discipline, time management, and organizational skills.

Describe a technical project or solution you're proud of.

This question allows the candidate to highlight a project or resolution they were personally involved in, giving you a chance to assess their participation and impact in their former roles.

Do you have any experience training or coaching others?

Being a team player is essential in any role, especially in tech positions. This question will help you understand whether a candidate is capable of guiding and mentoring others for their professional development as well as your team's success.