When it comes to hiring, interviews can often feel routine or even mundane. You ask the standard questions, get boring answers, and end up with another round of “good enough” candidates.
But what if interviews could be something more? What if the answers you hear could inspire, motivate, and give you a true glimpse of the heart and soul of a potential team member?
Asking the right questions during the interview can lead to inspiring interview answers that reveal a candidate’s true potential. Today we’re sharing some of the most inspiring interview answers we’ve heard, proving that hiring doesn’t have to be boring – it can be uplifting and powerful.
Breaking the Mold of Traditional Interviews
For many business leaders, the hiring process is often treated like a checklist: job ad, applications, interviews, hire. But if you want to hire someone who will stick around, contribute to your culture, and drive your business forward, you need to dig deeper. The goal is to discover the person behind the resume and the best way to do that is to ask questions that get to the heart of their motivations, values, and character.
At Core Matters, we’ve been rethinking interview questions, aiming to inspire both the interviewer and the candidate. This approach has led to some incredible, thought-provoking responses that have changed how we view candidates and their potential impact on the team.
Inspiring Interview Answers: Glass Half Full?
One of our favorite questions to ask candidates is: “Finish the sentence: The glass is always…”
Most people say “half full” or “half empty,” but the answers we’ve received from some interviewees have truly stood out:
- Inspiring Interview Answer #1: “I’m just blessed to have a cup.”
This response speaks volumes about gratitude and perspective. When a candidate expresses this kind of outlook, it shows they’re not just focused on what they have, but how fortunate they are to have anything at all. For a business leader, having someone with that attitude on your team can be a game-changer – especially in an industry where challenges come fast and hard. - Inspiring Interview Answer #2: “Your glass should remain full. You should always be pouring into your glass to continue pushing forward.”
This response reveals a mindset of continuous improvement and self-care. A candidate who recognizes the importance of personal growth is likely to take initiative, invest in their development, and contribute positively to your company’s culture. They’re not just filling their own cup – they’ll help fill others’, too. - Inspiring Interview Answer #3: “At least half full…with a little room to add more to ensure you give those in your workplace, customers, friends, or life exactly what they need.”
This answer shows empathy and a focus on teamwork. They aren’t just concerned with what they have; they’re thinking about how they can serve others. In a blue collar business, where collaboration and mutual support are key, this perspective is invaluable.
Why Do You Want to Join the Team?
Another critical question we ask is, “Why do you want to join this team?” While this may seem like a routine question, the right answers can reveal so much about a person’s character and long-term goals.
- Inspiring Interview Answer: “I want to continue progressing in the iron field. I’d love to work around other great ironworkers to learn more. I also want to be a part of a team where I can take what I know and help teach the younger ironworkers how to succeed.”
This answer struck us because it shows both ambition and a desire to give back. The candidate doesn’t just want to join the team for their own benefit – they want to contribute to the success of others. That’s the kind of leader every company needs, especially in an industry like construction or manufacturing where mentorship can be the key to engaging and retaining talent.
The Power of an Inspiring Answer
The right interview questions can lead to answers that inspire and reveal a candidate’s true potential. These moments give you insight beyond skills or experience. They show who the candidate is at their core.
Think about your own hiring process. Are you just asking the same questions you’ve always asked? Are you getting the same, predictable responses? It’s time to shake things up and give candidates a chance to inspire you with their answers.
Bringing Inspiration to Your Team
If you want to create a work environment where employees thrive, it starts with who you hire. And who you hire depends on how you interview.
These examples are a testament to the fact that interviews can be more than just a step in the hiring process. They can be an opportunity to connect with people on a deeper level and to find individuals who will not just fill a role, but who will elevate your team.
By asking questions that require candidates to think, reflect, and share their personal philosophies, you’ll get answers that go beyond the surface. You’ll find the people who aren’t just looking for a paycheck but are looking to make a difference.
Hire the Right People
Hiring the right people is the foundation of any successful business, especially in the blue collar world where work is hands-on, demanding, and requires teamwork. By asking the right questions, you can inspire candidates to share their true selves and ensure you’re hiring not just for skills, but for character and culture fit as well.
