Structured Interview Guide Use this guide to conduct consistent, effective, and insightful interviews that help you hire the right people.
Candidate Information CANDIDATE NAME: POSITION APPLIED FOR: DATE: INTERVIEWER(S): DEPARTMENT: TYPE OF INTERVIEW:
Phone / Screening
In-Person
Video
Interview Best Practices 1. PREPARE
2. BE CONSISTENT
Review the resume and job description before the
Ask every candidate the same core questions.
interview.
3. LISTEN ACTIVELY
4. STAY LEGAL
Let candidates speak fully and take notes.
Avoid questions about age, race, religion, national origin, gender, disability, marital status, or family plans.
5. TAKE NOTES
6. SELL THE ROLE
Document key points and examples.
Share why your company is a great place to grow.
Core Behavioral Questions WORK ETHIC & RELIABILITY
TEAMWORK & COMMUNICATION
Focus on dedication, accountability, and follow-
Focus on collaboration, communication, and working
through.
with others.
1. Tell me about a time you had to meet a difficult
1. Tell me about a time you had a disagreement with a
deadline.
coworker. How did you handle it?
2. Describe a situation where you had multiple
2. Describe a successful team project you were a part
priorities competing for your attention.
of.
3. How do you stay productive when work becomes repetitive?
3. How do you handle receiving constructive feedback?
PROBLEM SOLVING & ADAPTABILITY
CULTURE & MOTIVATION
Focus on critical thinking, problem solving, and
Focus on values, drive, and alignment with the
handling change.
company.
1. Tell me about a challenge you encountered at work
1. What interests you about our company and this
and how you solved it.
role?
2. Describe a mistake you made and what you learned from it.
2. What type of work environment helps you perform your best?
3. What process do you follow when something
3. What motivates you to do great work?
unexpected happens on the job?
Green Industry Specific Focus on industry experience, skills, and growth mindset. 1. Tell me about your experience working outdoors. 2. Describe any experience with plants, irrigation, equipment, or customer service. 3. Are you interested in certifications or additional training? What areas interest you most?
Notes:
Candidate Scorecard CATEGORY
SCORE (1–5)
Communication
1 2 3 4 5
Reliability & Work Ethic
1 2 3 4 5
Technical Skills / Experience
1 2 3 4 5
Culture Fit
1 2 3 4 5
Growth Potential
1 2 3 4 5
OVERALL SCORE
____ / 25
NOTES
Green Flags & Red Flags GREEN FLAGS
RED FLAGS
Strong work ethic
Attendance concerns
Positive attitude
Poor communication
Coachable & open to feedback
Negative attitude
Team-oriented
Unclear work history
Problem solver
Safety concerns
Growth mindset
Not a team player
Relevant experience & skills
Resistance to feedback
Aligns with company values
Does not meet requirements
Hiring Recommendation STRONGLY RECOMMEND
RECOMMEND
NEUTRAL
DO NOT RECOMMEND
COMMENTS / RATIONALE:
Next Steps 1
2
3
4
5
6
Check references
Verify employment history
Run MVR (if applicable)
Complete drug screening (if applicable)
Send offer letter
Plan onboarding