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Questions for Hiring Managers > 5 Best questions about coworkers
5 Best questions about coworkers
- Can you please tell me about the people who will look to me for supervision. A teamwork question. It’s very important to know whom you will be supervising. As well, this question also exposes the people who may not report directly to you but will nevertheless see you as a leader.
- Would I encounter any coworker or staff person who’s proved to be a problem in the past? Oh boy, now you’re getting into dicey territory. Still, it’s worth asking. Shows you understand that every organization struggles with interpersonal issues. If the hiring manager looks around and gives you an honest answer to this question, you are looking very good. If you have your notebook out, put it away.
- What happened to the person who previously held this job? This question launches a very important conversation. You’ll learn either that this is a new position, that the incumbent resigned or was dismissed, or that the incumbent was promoted. You can then offer any of these follow-ups.
- The incumbent was dismissed? What did you learn from the incident? How could the problems have been avoided? You want to be seen as interested in the incident as a learning opportunity, not as a rubbernecker at a highway car crash. The issue is what the hiring manager learned and what you can take away from the incident.
- The incumbent was promoted? I’m delighted to hear it.Would it be possible for me to talk to him or her? This is excellent news. Not only might the incumbent be made available to you, but the position seems to be a launching pad for career success. Getting the opportunity to talk to the person who held the job you want is gold. Redouble your request.