Page 197 - 301 Best Questions to Ask on Your Interview, Second Edition

THE QUESTION LIFE CYCLE

13-22
If I were frustrated about my job, what specific steps would you take to
help me overcome that frustration? How about if you were frustrated
with me? Can you show me examples of what you have done for others
in your group in the past year to overcome any frustration?
This is a supremely confident question that is frank in assuming there
will be occasional frustrations. The bigger issue is what services are
in place to help resolve frustrations.

13-23
What are the wows of this job? What are the worst parts? And what will
you do to maximize the former and minimize the latter? If I asked the
incumbent what stinks about the job, what would he or she say? Can I
talk to him or her?
This balanced but nevertheless threatening question asks for the
good, the bad, and the ugly. Every company is made up of all three
qualities. The bigger issue is whether the hiring manager has the
spine to be up front about it.

13-24
What will make my physical work environment a fun and stimulating
place to spend time?
If the physical workspace is important to you, ask. This general
question is better than asking about air hockey tables or company
masseurs.

13-25
What inputs do employees get in departmental decisions? In hiring and
assessing co-workers?
You’ll want to know about all-important team processes. Make sure
you ask for specifics.

13-26
Could I get a chance to see the team in action? Can I sit in on a team
meeting? Shadow someone for a day?
Is the interviewer willing to make the company more transparent to
you? This is a good way to find out.

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