Cultural fit is one of the most important aspects of recruiting and hiring an employee, yet it’s still one of the biggest stumbling points encountered during the hiring process. Failing to consider how a candidate will align with and adapt to the company’s communication style and core values can male even the most skilled new hire feel like a mistake.

If a candidate has the right skills and education, it’s time to dig deeper. It’s important to ask questions that will explore the candidates soft skills (or emotional intelligence as it is often referred to).

Ask questions that prompt your candidate to talk about his or her viewpoint on leadership and management styles. As well as aptitude for interpersonal communication and interpretation of social nuances. Taking addition time during the recruiting process to access a candidate’s personality will help you better determine how he or she will fit into the existing team.

1. If your manager asked you to complete a task you thought impossible at first, how would you go about it?
2. Tell me about a time you missed (or almost missed) a deadline. How did you react when you were falling behind? What did that experience teach you?
3. Do you prefer working in a team or on your own? Why?
4. If your best friend was sitting here, what would they say is the best part about being your friend?
5. What has the most satisfying moment in your life been?
6. What are you passionate about?
7. Tell me about a time your manager wasn’t satisfied with the results of your work. How did you discuss the issues and what did you do differently the next time?

Gaining a clear picture of what motivates – and demotivates – a new hire helps you make the most of his or her role. What motivates one employee may not be the same as your established team. It is important to see envision how well they will gel with your team. If the person in front of you needs a type of motivation that isn’t common in your company, it may be best for both if you move on to the next candidate.

Once you’ve found the right fit, introduce him or her around the office, clearly defining responsibilities and checking in periodically. Onboarding can be awkward for both the new hire and the existing team so ease the tension by creating a smooth transition.

Remember, we often spend more time each week with our co-workers than we do with our families. It’s worthwhile for all involved to recruit a team that works well together. Creating a strong community spirit in the workplace is a recipe of for success and cultural fit is one of the main ingredients.