Issues of character can be determined through unconventional strategies.

As corporate America shuffles through the wake of corporate scandals, the issue of "character" is now extra important in the search for senior-level executives. To find individuals with integrity, companies must look beyond the resumes, the references, the psychological tests and performance during interviews. Zeroing in on the right candidate takes some creativity and unusual strategies.

Try some of these unique recruiting practices that are sure to help you determine if the candidate is appropriate. A relaxed environment can actually bring out personality traits in a candidate that would never come out in an interview.

The question "tell me about your parents," can accomplish many things: the values of a parent are often the values of the candidate. Compliments on a parent's work ethic, integrity, and so on can give insight into what this candidate values. Negative comments about a parent (lazy, drank too much, couldn't hold a job), can provide a window on the candidate. Ethics are a major component in business and should be taken seriously.

Should the opportunity arise, ride with candidates in their car. Driving style and behavior can show their reaction to a stressful situation. Courtesy, patience (too little, too much) and aggressiveness are qualities that become obvious behind the wheel. Many people ridicule other drivers behind the safety of their car windows.

Take the candidate out to dinner with you and your wife or husband. Notice how the ...