Interviews can reveal an employer's attitudes

By Barry Joffe
USA Today

If your values and goals don't align with those of your future employer, it may be difficult to achieve happiness and success. Clarifying your fit within the corporate culture should be one of your top priorities during the interview process.

Ask these eight questions when interviewing for a new position to get a better feel for future realities:

1. How would you describe your management style?

Based on the answer, ask yourself, "Can I see myself working for this manager?" If the person seems to be a micromanager and you value autonomy, for example, then your styles do not match.

2. What are the most important traits you look for in a subordinate?

Asking this question gives you an opportunity to demonstrate — based on your accomplishments — that you have the qualities the hiring manager is looking for.

3. How do you want people to communicate with you?

Does the manager only send e-mail and discourage you from walking into his or her office? If you prefer regular face-to-face communication, try to find a manager with similar expectations.

4. What do you consider the most important areas for improvement in this position?

Based on the answer, demonstrate your knowledge and experience by offering suggestions.

5. What are the critical factors for success in your area?

Notice if the hiring manager mentions people. This will help you gauge how the position is viewed within the organization. You'll be able to find out if you would play a significant role in the organization's future.

6. Where do you see the company going in the next few years?

Does their agenda match your own development goals? If the organization appears stagnant and you don't see much room for professional development, ask yourself if this is the type of company you want to work for.

7. If we developed a philosophical difference, how would you resolve it?

The answer offers insight into the manager's communication style and ability to resolve conflict.

8. How do you see the outlook for a merger or takeover? How would you react?

This question reveals how the interviewer manages and reacts to changes within the organization.

Promises made by a prospective employer are of little value if the company lacks the resources to back them up.

During the interview process, also ask questions about the company's current activities and future plans:

• Request internal documents to study. These can include financial data, budgets and capital plans.
• Ask for company publications as well, such as books or employee newsletters. Do not rely solely on public reports such as the annual report and financial summaries.
• Inquire about the company's competitive position and its vulnerabilities.
• Take advantage of electronic research tools. There are several databases that can help you access a third-party perspective on the company.
• Try to meet with future peers and associates informally, perhaps over lunch, to get a feel for the culture and how they perceive management. This also could include talking to former employees you encounter through networking.
• Consider an interview an exchange of information between you and the employer during which you have an opportunity to learn about each other.
• To gain an edge, be prepared with focused questions and expectations.

For more news on careers and the workplace, visit http://usatodaycareers.com.

Barry Joffe is the managing consultant for DBM in Cincinnati. DBM (www.dbm.com) provides human resource solutions in employee transition, retention, development and selection.