The short answer
Ask about what someone has done, not what qualifications they hold. Targeted questions about real situations reveal skills that a degree never proves. That's how you assess the person rather than the certificate.
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A degree is a filter, not proof
Degrees are intended as a shortlisting tool. They say something about effort, but little about whether someone can do the job. A candidate without a bachelor's degree but with eight years of relevant practical experience sometimes outperforms someone who has the degree but has done little with it since. A standard CV scan won't show you that difference.
The question isn't 'does this person have the degree?' but 'can this person do the work?' That takes a different approach.
Questions that reveal skills
Competency-based questions give more insight. Ask about concrete situations: what did someone do when a project went wrong, how did they handle a complaint, what decision did they make under time pressure? Those answers say more than a grade list.
Red Rocket reaches candidates through social campaigns. Our AI then asks them questions via WhatsApp, tailored to the role. Answers are assessed against criteria you set as the employer. In the Cockpit, you see the profile, the answers, the score, optionally the CV, and any follow-up questions. If someone doesn't meet the minimum requirements, the AI automatically doesn't send an invitation.
Fictional example: Sander applies for a role as logistics coordinator without the required bachelor's degree. He has seven years of experience at a distribution centre, three of which as team leader. The AI asks targeted questions about planning and communication under pressure. His answers meet all the criteria. In the Cockpit, you see his profile, score, and answers. You decide to invite him for an interview.
You decide, not the AI
A score is a tool, not a verdict. The AI helps you quickly distinguish between candidates who meet the requirements and those who don't. The hiring decision is yours, based on what you see in the Cockpit.
Keep in mind: some roles legally require a degree, such as in healthcare or education. Answers and documents still require appropriate human verification. Verifying required certificates remains your responsibility.
From explanation to your practice
Source and editorial note
This article offers practical considerations. Examples are fictional, not client results or forecasts. The source below provides broader context, not evidence for a particular Red Rocket outcome.
Frequently asked questions
What if a candidate struggles with writing but can do the work just fine?
Writing ability is a criterion you can include or leave out. You decide which requirements are decisive. The AI assesses answers based on the criteria you set.
Can the AI ask follow-up questions when an answer is too vague?
The Cockpit can include follow-up questions that you formulate yourself as the employer. This gives you more depth where needed, without having to call every candidate yourself.
