You have had an open position in your construction company for what feels like forever. When you finally interview a candidate with the perfect combination of the right skills, background, and personality, it can feel too good to be true. You may assume that they are just as excited about the prospect of working together as you are. When you send over the offer, you expect it will be an easy process, and they will be on the job site at the beginning of next week, but then you discover that a counteroffer could put you right back in square one job listings and sifting through resumes.

This article will go over some important questions that you can (and should!) be asking during the hiring process. While just asking these questions may not prevent a counteroffer from happening, they can help you determine if one is likely, and you can build out your hiring strategy from there.

Question #1: Why are you looking to leave your current position?

The construction industry is not always known for high compensation levels, particularly in mid and entry-level positions. By asking this question, you can begin to determine whether the applicant is serious about a job change or if they are really just looking to secure a higher hourly wage or salary.

And you do not even have to ask this question directly to uncover some of the applicant’s hidden motivation. Take a look at their resume; do they hop around a lot, or have they stayed with past employers for extended periods of time? What type of language do they use to talk about their current employer?

Question #2: Are you currently interviewing elsewhere? If so, how far along the hiring process are you?

This question might seem too direct, but I promise that it is completely reasonable. The hiring process is a business transaction, and to make the best deal possible, you need as much information as you can get. If someone is interviewing with multiple construction companies, then you should probably not be putting all of your eggs in their basket, so to speak. You can also plan accordingly by expediting an offer or being ready to sweeten the deal.

Question #3: Do you expect a counteroffer from your current employer? If so, how do you plan to respond?

Like I said earlier, it is also okay to ask them directly. In fact, this is the best way to get a straight answer. There is a chance that some applicants may not have even considered the possibility of a counteroffer; it is better for them to really consider their motivations behind looking for a new job now so that they are not just swayed by dollar signs later.

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