As a recruiter, I coach the professionals that I partner with to evaluate each stage of the interview process to ensure the opportunity matches their career expectations. I share insight on the potential job by outlining and defining the challenges that exist within the position. I also work with the professional to guide them in how to determine what the employer views as success in the job opportunity.
Success can be measured differently by various leadership teams. Therefore, gaining clear definitions of benchmarks in the leadership’s perspective during the interview process will provide a better understanding of the roadmap to success. Interviewing is a two-way street and evaluating the opportunity with the following questions will provide a clearer perspective on the career opportunity.
- “What are the top three goals that would need to be achieved within the first six months to one year to meet expectations in this position?”
This question will help define the job specifications and should provide the roadmap for the first six months to one year.
- “Based on my skill set, what types of challenges would I face in this role?”
This will provide feedback pertaining to the potential challenges the candidate may encounter and will shed light on whether the candidate’s skill set will be a match for the opportunity.
- “What is the company culture and communication style within the Executive team?”
Learning about the culture of a company is key to understanding the culture/work style match. Also, understanding the communication style of the Executives will set the tone for communication (formal or informal) which will help the candidate determine if the position is a fit.
- “How does this position impact the future growth of the company?”
This will provide an understanding of visibility within the company and should open the dialogue of a career path without asking about it directly.
Be prepared to ask relevant questions by researching the company ahead of time. Research should cover any articles published in the last year on the company, current Executives, competitors, and reputation. Anyone can ask, “Describe a typical day?” Intel gained through thorough research will lead to educated questions to conduct a detailed evaluation of the opportunity, while simultaneously impressing the leadership team with your unique questions.
Researching a company is crucial to gain a full perspective of the opportunity, company reputation, and growth.In an interview, it is important to showcase that you take your career search seriously. This will be proven through a conversation on relevant information during the interview process from articles, blogs, Glassdoor reviews etc.
The Bottom Line
Most interviews are concluded with an opportunity for a Q&A session. Ask intelligent and insightful questions to leave a lasting impression.
