Page 115 - 301 Best Questions to Ask on Your Interview, Second Edition

I N TERV IEW THE I N TERV IEW ER

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What are some examples of the achievements of others who have been
in this position?
The conversation uncovers the qualities that the interviewer has
identified as being important for success in the position you desire.
Follow-up questions include: What are your expectations for me in
this role? or What are the traits and skills of people who are the most
successful within the organization?

8-24
What qualities or attributes would make someone unsuccessful in this
role?
Similar to the question above but stated negatively. This question
may be used if asking the question in a positive way does not yield
specific answers. Some interviewers may be more responsive identi-
fying negative qualities.

8-25
What are the behaviors among subordinates that you consider
unforgivable?
This is a more pointed version of the above question. Here you are
not just asking about technical lapses but also about the moral lapses
that the interviewer considers most egregious. Many interviewers
will identify lying or deception. This is your opportunity to tell a
story about your honesty or whatever negative behavior the inter-
viewer identified.

8-26
What is the organization’s plan for the next five years, and how does
this department fit in?
A forward-looking question that allows you to demonstrate your
long-term commitment and strategic perspective.

8-27
What do you think are some of the greatest opportunities facing the orga-
nization in the near future, and what are some of the biggest threats?
The purpose of this question is to put some opportunities and threats
on the table so that you can systematically assure the interviewer

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