Certain questions reveal a lot about who we are as a person and how we would be as workers. Here are the questions that hiring managers and recruiters consider to be the most revealing about job applicants they interview, according to an article on FastCompany.com.

1. What were you doing on your very best day at work? 

It’s a question that really reveals a candidate’s strengths and talents, which you can then compare against the company’s needs. 

2. Tell me about the most significant technical accomplishment or project that you're most proud of. 

Although this is tech-specific, the principle can apply to all interviews. Answers to this question, can signal whether a prospective employee has grit, rigor and ownership.

3. Why should I hire you?

Curveball questions aren’t always effective, but the right ones can provide telling insights.

The goal isn’t to trip them up, but to assess their self-awareness, integrity and honesty. Thinking too long on the question, for example, might indicate that they’re hiding something. Pay close attention to their body language. If someone crossed their arms, for example, that could communicate arrogance or defensiveness.

4.  How did you prepare for this interview?

This helps give you an idea of the applicant’s attention to detail and gives you an opportunity for discussion. 

5. What questions do you have for me?

Sometimes, the questions you ask the interviewer really does say a lot more about you than the questions you answered. This question is extremely important because having specific questions about the company or the role illustrates a candidate’s curiosity and willingness to go the extra mile. Not having any questions, on the other hand, can give the impression that a candidate is lazy, disinterested, or not completely serious about applying for a job with the company.