So it's the Great Resignation. We're coming out of Covid (at least in the U.S.) and everyone's thinking about ... well .. something new.
My top advice is beware the greener grass, if you have a good boss and a good job. Because all good jobs are hard.
Still, if you are making a move, at least make sure it's to something better. Ask the questions. Especially if you get a chance to interview directly with the CEO.
Some thoughts if you do. You may not be comfortable asking all of these in all circumstances, but I think they are telling:
- What’s a key hire you made that didn’t work out??What lessons did you learn?
- Who are the best 1 or 2 hires you’ve ever made? This is a great question to learn how the CEO defines excellence. Helpful if you are ambitious and want to grow there.
- What will the industry look like in [X} years??X=how long the company has been in existence.
- Who are some of the folks who have grown their careers here??How did they do it?
- What happens if we miss the quarter? It's going to happen.
- Who was the best boss you ever had yourself??The worst?
- How strong is the competition? What do you respect about them? Beware a CEO that doesn't respect the competition. This is also a great way to learn the industry in just a few minutes.
- How does the company incorporate diverse thinking and perspectives? If the answer is rambling ... they don't.
- Why are you doing this???Being a CEO is hard ;).?Are they mission-driven??Do they really want to go big??Is their vision aligned with what you want out of the role?
I think that’s a pretty good start to learn about 10x more than you might otherwise learn. I think they are pretty good for VPs, too.
In fact, this is the list I am going to start using. And that I wished I’d used.
Web Accessibility & eCommerce | CEO AccessiCart | CPACC
3 年These are great questions that can be adapted for companies besides startups. We recently hired, and I could see even an agency like us being asked most of these.
Founder and CEO specializing in Emotional Intelligence, Leadership, and personal development coaching using the Kolbe Index. AI consultant and strategist to business, educators and government.
3 年I would never ask question # 5, particularly if I am looking to make a positive impact on the organization. I would ask to “shadow” a few employees who are currently doing the job that I am interviewing for. I would add asking about the person who held the job I am interviewing for. Is this an expansion position or replacement? This is a great 10 step interview process questions to use. Best wishes!