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These are some sample questions for asking candidates for trustee positions. You can, of course, add or remove any questions you like – they are just a starting point. At the bottom of the page you’ll be able to download the questions in a Word document for you to use.

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A few tips for trustee interviews:

• We recommend that the interview panel agrees a consistent set of questions for all candidates (though of course a candidate’s responses may prompt follow-up questions too).
• Make sure to ask any candidates if they have any access requirements or any other accommodations that they need to ensure they can participate in the interview process to the best of their abilities.
• Consider who should be on your interview panel. Often this is the chair, together with one or more trustees, and sometimes the CEO (particularly at second interview stage).
• All interviewers should take notes as the interview progresses, and at the end of the process send their notes to the interview panel co-ordinator.
• It’s a good idea for different people on the panel to ask a few questions each (this should be agreed beforehand).

Should you provide interview questions in advance?

We have found it works well to give candidates the questions beforehand. It reduces the stress and anxiety of not knowing what is going to be asked – and helps people to prepare more effectively. This can be particularly helpful for neurodivergent people and those who may not do formal interviews that often.  

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Questions for trustee candidates

• Why are you interested in being a trustee of [organisation name]?
• What skills, expertise and experience do you have that is relevant to this role?
• What do you think makes a good trustee?
• From what you know about us, what opportunities do you think we have?
• From what you know about us, what challenges do you think we have?
• We have shared with you our most recent financial report, together with our annual report and accounts. What would you observe about us and our work from these papers?
• As a trustee, how would you work well with the other board members, staff, and volunteers in our organisation?
• How would you as a trustee contribute to the progression of equity, diversity and inclusion for our board and our organisation?
• Trustees are expected to be ambassadors and champions, helping to raise our profile and represent our work to others. What would you bring to the role to help you do this?
• What do we need to know about you, to help us support you to do the role to the best of your abilities? This could be your training needs, your lifestyle, your approach to board roles or your personality.
• Do you have any questions for us?