Quick Take
In this speaking engagement, Brian discusses how important it is to have work/life balance and be involved in the community.
When we think of an interview, we presume the interviewer is the one asking all the questions.
When I interview a potential employee, I place more emphasis on the questions I’m asked by the person I am interviewing.
When interviewing for a new position, you should always be prepared with questions. The key, however, is to ask the right questions.
Asking your interviewer the right questions sets you apart in two ways. It demonstrates you are more interested in being an asset to the company rather than just landing a job. It also gives you more insight into the company, allowing you to determine if this is the right company for you.
There are three questions every person should consider asking when they interview. These questions should be asked of the highest-level individual interviewing you. It’s important the candidate asks these questions to someone operating in the business.
Question #1: What are the greatest challenges facing your company, (or your team) right now, and how can I help in meeting those challenges?
This question demonstrates that you want to provide help in the best way possible. Whether filling a void, providing a missing skill set, or taking on a difficult task, you are showing your willingness to help an organization meet and overcome the real challenges they face today.
Second, it gives you a great insight about the interviewer, your potential future boss. By observing how he or she responds, you can determine what challenges are ahead, and have a plan to address these challenges. Then you can decide if there’s a productive role for you and your skills in meeting these challenges, in turn making you a successful contributor.
Third, this question reveals information about the company that interviewers may not usually share in an interview. Based on their response, you can figure out how the business is operating. Is profitability a challenge? Are there difficulties in hiring and maintaining good people? Are they struggling to grow the business? By understanding these challenges, you better understand the company.
Asking what challenges a company faces, and how you can help address those challenges is a great question to ask your interviewer.
Stay tuned next week, when I pose the second question you should ask your interviewer
You Might Also Like
If Your Interviewer Can’t Answer This Question, You Should Not Take The Job
Figure out if you really want to work for a company you’re interviewing for by asking the right question.
Are You A Good Maverick or A Bad One? Minimize The Risk With These 5 Tips
The idea of the maverick employee makes a great storyline, but are they good for a company?
The Power of the Brand Image & First Impressions
Many new entrepreneurs talk about their brand, but brands take time to build. Start with your brand image and make sure you’re making the right impressions.
Stay in the Know
Want to stay up-to-date with the latest Brian T. King blog posts and news right in your mailbox? Subscribe to our weekly insights and we’ll keep you in the know.