During a job interview, do you typically let the hiring manager do all the interviewing?
As a leading recruiting agency, Peoplelink knows that if you do, then you’re missing out on an important opportunity to evaluate a potential employer. And considering that you’ll spend a huge chunk of your life at work, your overall happiness depends upon finding an employer that’s a good fit for you.
So what kinds of questions should you be asking? And are there any red flags to be on the lookout for? Here’s the scoop:
Interview Question #1: How would you describe my prospective supervisor’s management style?
The last thing you want in a new boss is a micro-manager. Not only will it frustrate you immensely, but it’ll also stifle your job growth and career advancement. The best managers offer a mix of supervision and support, with plenty of autonomy for an employee to do their job.
Interview Question #2: What do you think makes a good employee at this company?
If the hiring manager describes a typical successful employee – and it doesn’t sound anything like you – then your personality may not be the right fit for the organization. However, if the more you hear, the more excited you get, then you may have just found the right job.
Interview Question #3: How would you describe the workflow here?
If you’re someone who thrives on hot projects and tight deadlines, then a slower workflow may frustrate you. In addition, if you are typically more efficient than others, then you may have to pick up their slack. So besides asking the above question, also ask about rewards for outstanding performance.
Interview Question #4: What’s the average employee tenure at the company?
If the interviewer tells you that the average employee has been at the company for at least 10 years, that’s a good indication that employees like what they do and like where they work. However, if there’s rampant turnover, then that’s a big red flag.
Interview Question #5: Can you describe a typical workday for an employee in this position?
Many times, job postings can be long on adjectives (requiring a “solid team player” and “an innovative thinker”), but short on detail of what the actual position entails. By asking this question, you’ll gain a better sense of the day-to-day tasks you’d be responsible for – and whether they’re a good fit for you.
Interview Question #6: What are some goals I’d be expected to meet in the first year?
This question goes hand-in-hand with question #5. While asking about a typical day helps you better understand the daily work you’ll be doing, asking about goals gives you a clearer sense of the big picture – and what a prospective employer expects from a new hire in the long-term.
Interview Question #7: What’s the culture like here?
This is probably one of the most important – yet overlooked – interview questions you need to ask a potential employer. You may love the work, but if you don’t like the company’s culture, you’re not going to be happy.
Need More Help Finding a Great Job?
If you do, let us know. As a leading recruiting agency, Peoplelink partners with top employers all over the country – and can connect you with a variety of rewarding job opportunities in your field. Contact Peoplelink today to learn more about how we can help you.
