Candidate Do’s - Know the Company and the Position
It is vitally important for candidates to show that they researched the company thoroughly. Coming into
the interview with good questions is imperative, as doing so shows that the candidate is engaged and
truly interested in the opportunity.
Personally, my favorite question to ask a candidate is what they know about our company and the position
that they’re seeking. Many people can’t give a straight answer to this one, and it helps set apart the
quality candidates from the mediocre ones.
Candidates need to prepare as much as possible ahead of their interviews, and a failure to do so is
immediately evident. To help prepare, read the company’s website, press announcements, leadership
team biographies, thought leadership articles, and analyst reports on the industry and the company.
The interview is not only for the Candidate but also an interview of the company by the candidate. For
the candidate it is important to know if you can see yourself working for this company, for the leader and
with the team. You are empowered to ask the interviewers what makes the company a great place to
work; what are the cultural and leadership strengths the company has and is looking for in new leaders.
What is the vision and strategy of the company? If the leaders of the company can’t answer those
questions or you get widely ranging answers, this might send up red flags for you.
Always research the LinkedIn profile of the person you’re meeting as well. By doing so, you might find
something you have in common, e.g. having mutual connections, sharing the same alma mater, etc.
Overall, a good interview should be an intelligent conversation, with everyone trying to find out if they can
work together and help the company evolve. Following these tips will increase your chances of a positive
outcome. Best of luck!