In job interviews, founders who have hired hundreds often ask the same question: "It demonstrates their thorough research."

Elizabeth Gore, co-founder of Hello Alice, has interviewed over 700 people since its inception over seven years ago.

Gore, who was the entrepreneur in residence at both the United Nations and Dell, has helped 1.5 million entrepreneurs worldwide build their businesses and find success through the platform, contributing $52 million in grants.

Gore typically inquires about what the candidate believes the company is doing incorrectly during the hiring process.

Here's why.

'How are you going to push our company goals?'

Gore emphasizes the need to consider the long-term success of Hello Alice and think about it in a holistic manner.

What are some ways to advance our company goals? She considers this by asking, "What innovative ideas are being presented?" To assess a candidate's problem-solving skills and potential contributions to the company, it may be helpful to inquire about their ideas for improvement.

"It demonstrates their research on the company they aspire to work for," she remarks.

The ability to pivot quickly is crucial for startups to meet the needs of their clients, and the question helps to assess a candidate's ability to think on their feet, says she.

'How you deliver that answer is as important as what you deliver'

Gore believes that the way a candidate answers a question is just as important as the content of their answer.

Instead of saying "well, you suck at these five things," a more constructive and positive way to give feedback would be to provide specific examples of areas for improvement and offer suggestions for how to improve. This approach would create a more positive work environment and encourage growth and development.

She seeks individuals who express their response with the phrase "a growth area I would suggest," she remarks. They are not condescending as they attempt to aid the company's development.

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