Steve Kaufer, the cofounder of Tripadvisor, recently shared his approach to interviewing and the red flags he looks out for when hiring. Kaufer, who stepped down as CEO in 2022 to found the philanthropy-focused startup Give Freely, emphasized the importance of gauging a candidate’s ability to take responsibility, work as a team player, and demonstrate curiosity and adaptability. In an interview on “The Logan Bartlett Show,” Kaufer revealed that he asks questions that can catch candidates off guard, such as what they would do to improve a successful project, to test their ability to think critically and evaluate their own work. He also looks for signs of curiosity, such as a willingness to experiment with new technology, and views a lack of adaptability as a major red flag.
Kaufer’s approach is refreshing in its focus on the soft skills that are often overlooked in the hiring process. By prioritizing traits like teamwork, adaptability, and curiosity, he is able to build a team that is not only competent but also able to work together effectively and adapt to changing circumstances. This approach is particularly valuable in today’s fast-paced and rapidly changing business environment, where the ability to adapt and innovate is crucial for success.
