hi
i find the interview stage in cleaning only gleans out th absolute no hopers anyway.
They will all tell you they will be honest reliable etc An out and out thief isnt going to sit there and tell you.
Some one leaving for Australia in two months wont tell you that either
Also i get people shaking in there shoes and can hardly string three words together, it doesnt mean they wont be great workers. They also wont be quick to leave as they dont want to have to look for other jobs and interview again.
Jane is right, i much more lean towards informal chats about there situation, when done this way you learn a lot more they open up a bit. you might pick up on something that means they are a definite no. like 'when the baby comes' lol. You also might realise your first impression was wrong and they are good people.
The most important thing i have learned is dont go straight into a full contract /probationary period situation, i now do a working trial for one or two weeks. paid of course. They will soon show there true colours if there is a problem.
this is with cleaning staff, with admin you have to go a bit more formal because you need the right people and need to discuss background and training.
cheers
john