A “working interview” may be the key to successful hires, according to a survey released today by Accountemps, a division of Robert Half International Inc. (NYSE: RHI). The survey found more than one-third, 34%, of CFOs said having a candidate work on a temporary basis initially provides the greatest insight into whether he or she will be a good fit with the company culture.

“Applicants who mesh well with the organization’s employees and work environment assimilate faster and are more likely to stay longer term,” said Bill Driscoll, a district president of Accountemps. “Bringing in professionals on a temporary basis while you evaluate them for full-time roles can prevent costly hiring mistakes. Once candidates have performed on the job and interacted with the team and management, employers can make better-informed decisions as to whether they will make good permanent additions. Applicants can also get a better sense of whether the work environment is right for them.”

CFOs were asked, “In your opinion, which one of the following provides the greatest insight into a job candidate’s potential fit with the corporate culture?” Their responses:

• Having the candidate work on a temporary basis initially: 34%
• Asking open-ended interview questions: 30%
• Checking references: 27%
• Having the candidate attend a group lunch or social activity: 7%

The survey was developed by Accountemps and conducted by an independent research firm. It included interviews with more than 2,200 CFOs from companies in more than 20 of the largest US metropolitan areas.