Wouldn't it be great if you had the list of hiring manager interview questions prior to your interview?

Wouldn't it be great if you had the list of hiring manager interview questions prior to your interview? Unfortunately, since we don't have that option, I've created a short and general list below of a few questions to get you started. It's important to get comfortable responding to interview questions on the fly and to know what a hiring manager is looking for when answering. Additionally, with many organizations diversifying their workforce, EDI questions are becoming part of the interview processes.

Why is XXX company of interest to you? Do your research on this question that will give your reply a unique spin. I cannot tell you how many times I've asked this question where the candidate knows nothing about the organization. This is your chance to share what sparks your interest in the company and the opportunity.

Why are you looking to leave your current position? No matter what your thoughts are about your current employer, the most important thing is to remain positive when asked this question. Speak about how you're ready to take on more responsibility, the opportunity to develop new skills, seeking a higher level title, etc.

Why is there a gap in your employment? If you have a gap in your employment history, be honest and DO NOT go into unnecessary detail. IE: If you left the workforce to be a caretaker - “I spent some time as the primary caretaker in my family. During that time, I was able to be there for my family but always knew I wanted to return to work. I’m ready to do that now.” If you were laid off - “My former employer underwent a restructuring that resulted in my position being eliminated, etc.

What is your management style? I cannot tell you the amount of times I ask this question and candidates are unable to reply with clarity. Many reply with, "Wow, good question! Hmm, I've never thought about that before". Since all employees work differently than others, hiring manager look for managers who cater to employees' specific needs and work style. To find this, employers search for managers who use a management style that motivates employees to succeed and provide valuable work.

What type of work environment do you thrive in? Be specific here but make sure it's similar to the company's style.

What is your approach to understanding the perspectives of co-workers who have different backgrounds? Provide an example where you used this approach to understand a co-worker who came from a different background than you, and what you learned from it.

How would you handle a situation where a colleague was being culturally insensitive, sexist, racist, or homophobic? In answering this question, your interviewer wants to see that you won’t be a passive bystander in the event of a sexist, racist, homophobic, or otherwise problematic situation. Likewise, they’ll want to see that you won’t overstep or ignore company protocol in your response.