Rank the Criteria for Evaluating Eight Candidates Competing for One Role

Suppose eight candidates are applying for the same position. What would you evaluate them on? Rank your criteria in order of importance. ```hint The ranking is the question A list of good qualities is easy; the order is what the interviewer probes. For each criterion, ask how much it drives success in the role and how hard it is to develop after hiring. ``` ```hint Make it observable For each criterion, think about how you would actually measure it, in the same way, across all eight candidates. ``` ### Clarifying Questions - Is the position the same one I am interviewing for, or should I assume a general software engineering role? - Am I choosing one hire from the eight, or deciding which of them meet the bar? - What evidence do I have about each candidate: resumes only, or full interview results? ### What a Strong Answer Covers - A ranked list of criteria with a reason for the order, tied to the needs of the role - A distinction between must-pass requirements and criteria that compare candidates who pass - A consistent way to measure each criterion across all eight candidates - Fairness: the same structured process for everyone, and specific guards against bias - Awareness of what should not be used as a proxy for ability ### Follow-up Questions - Two candidates tie on your top criteria. How do you decide between them? - One candidate is technically the strongest but weak on collaboration. Do you hire them? - How would your ranking change for a senior role, or for an intern?