Prepare Questions and Answers for Your Next MSL Interview

Ask This, Not That Part II

Welcome to the second installment of “Ask This, Not That.” In this series, we discuss ways to spice up bland interview questions that hiring authorities are frequently asked. Don’t forget that sometimes the questions asked in an interview can be as important, if not more important, than the way you ask the interviewer’s questions. Here are three questions to ask in your next MSL interview.

Don’t Ask: How would you describe the company culture?

Do Ask: What do YOU like about working here?

The problem with the first question is that it’s kind of textbook. It’s the kind of question that your interviewer has probably been asked over and over again. And sometimes when you ask a textbook question, you might get a textbook response. Plus, there could be a psychological advantage to a question like this. People like talking about themselves. Research has shown that talking about ourselves feels good! So, get your interviewer energized and feeling good about by getting them to talk about themselves. Plus, there’s always a good chance they’ll say “one of the things I like about working here is the culture,” opening up the opportunity for you to follow up with “well how would you define the culture?”

Don’t Ask: What is the timeline for promotion in this position?

Do Ask: How can top performers grow on this team?

Immediately asking, “how quick can I get promoted” can set the wrong tone. Therefore, It implies you’ve already decided your interest in the position available isn’t very high. It says “I already can’t wait to start my next role within the company. However, asking the hiring manager how top performers can grow shows a different mindset while also helping achieve your answer. Put yourself in their shoes and imagine the candidate already letting you know that they plan to be a top performer. Then, hopefully, the hiring manager will proceed to let you know what the path to growth or promotion looks like.

Don’t Ask: What are the expectations for this role?

Do Ask: What would it take to exceed expectations?

It’s natural to want to know what expectations are for the position in which you’re applying. But, as mentioned in our last “Ask this, not that” article, you want to avoid asking questions that imply you’re only interested in meeting the bare minimum requirements. Certainly, the hiring manager will tell what their normal expectations are in the process of answering the question. Asking what you can do to exceed expectations shows you’re ready to hit the ground running and that you mean business. Plus, it would provide insight on how to really shine on the team, and perhaps in the type of way that would lead to a higher annual bonus.

What kind of questions do you put your own unique twist on?

Author: Lawrence Beck, CPC

Lawrence joined SEMbio in 2011 and is a team leader in recruiting and business development. He attended Texas Tech University on a path that led him to obtain his Master’s degree in Sports Management which provides Lawrence a unique perspective as a recruiter.