A Question To Give You All the Answers

When you leave your present job who will replace you?

If there is someone internally at their present job capable of serving as their replacement, this is an indication your candidate has a succession plan in place, which can be a huge asset to any employer. It also shows a progressive approach towards organizational development. If their replacement would be coming from the outside then it could mean they don’t delegate well, develop talent. etc. This all being said you really don’t know until you ask this opening question and then probe on all received responses. Consider this question one that should open up a 4-5 follow up question dialogue. Most companies spend no more than a total of 180 minutes interviewing and assessing a prospective new hire. Use your time wisely.