What Irritates You Most?

A standard interview question I ask is, "What irritates you most when working with Clients?"

This can give you great insights into a job candidate, but also it is a great question to ask your employees on a regular basis.  And don't let them blow the question off.  Drill down to candor...

McLane Intelligent Solutions is an extremely well-led organization in Temple, Texas with a strong company culture.  They are members of our LEADERSHIP Essentials Academy and I interview their top candidates as part of their hiring process after they complete our Talent Assessment Service.  

Recently I was speaking with a person interviewing for a help desk position with McLane.  He had served in the military for 11 years and done three tours of duty.  I asked, "What irritates you most when working with Clients?"

He paused, and then replied, "I just take it in stride.  They are paying and so you just...  I don't take it personally.  It is what it is.  I help irritated people all the time."

Think about it:  He did not say it, but there is a strong possibility that after all he has experienced during 11 years in the military and 3 tours, someone upset because their computer is not working is nothing by comparison.  This guy has perspective, a rare trait in many people today.

Are you hiring superstars, or just good people?  This is a decision you have to make, and then a discipline you have to follow consistently.  My conclusion at the end of our complete interview is that this gentleman is a superstar for McLane.

I suggest you consider asking this question often.

And do not forget... TODAY IS FRIDAY!  A basic part of an Accountability Culture is consistently completing your weekly 3Strands so you are making regular progress on your most important 2013 goals each week.  

Do not forget to hold your people accountable too.