I'm no master HR person - I've hired plenty of people that ended up elsewhere in a few weeks. But I have found some really good ones, too.
In general, what I look for is:
- On time for the interview. If they are 3 minutes late, that will only be amplified once they're hired.
- Someone who shows a genuine interest, even if only in being in a construction-related field. Too many don't quite know why they're applying for you job, which means this is just something to fill the space until they find something else.
- They can pass the wheelbarrow test. 5 Versa-Lok (400#) in a wheelbarrow, wheeled about 20' out, turn, then come back, all without spilling. This one seems to weed out those who talk like they've done hard work in the past and those that really have.
- I also check our state's court records to see if they jive with what I asked them about a criminal record and driving record.
The other stuff is standard interview procedure.
Hope that helps.