This week I thought I would do a double perspective and share my favorite questions to ask during an interview based upon what side of the table you are sitting at. An interview is like a date in which neither person knows if things should proceed to a second date/interview. A few great articles suggest taking someone to a meal instead of a formal interview and another that recommends visiting their apartment/house without the person in question there. You can learn a lot about someone from watching them interact with servers, their kids/pets, or their furniture and dishes. Interviews, just like dates, tend to be lies where both parties put on their best dress and best attitude. What questions can you ask to draw out the real person, team, and company spirit?

1. What do you think your direct reports think about your manager? Why?
• Transparency is important in helping teams work together and a company is built up of many integrated teams. Good communication up and down the chain of command reduces duplicate work, aligns goals, and increases confidence in those around you.
2. Is there any reason you believe I wouldn't be able to do this job successfully?
• One of my mentors passed this interview sinker on to me. You rarely get feedback if you didn't get the job and if there is something that is preventing you from getting the job, this question allows you to have one last chance to address it.
3. What is the biggest challenge your team will face within the next year?
• If they don't know the answer, they may not know why they are hiring you. If they have a good answer, you can describe directly how your strengths can solve those needs. You and the hiring manager both want to be enthusiastic about your first 6 months and be ready to contribute to the team right away.