The New Year, New Career Move: Key Interview Questions to Ask

Did you know that January is the most popular month for career moves? Whether you are an employer seeking fresh talent or a professional looking to take the next step in your career, preparing for interviews is crucial. Asking the right questions can help spark meaningful conversations and ensure a great fit for both parties.

To help you navigate this process, here are some insightful questions designed to assess strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and leadership style, along with general tips for making the most out of your interviews.

Strategic Thinking Questions

Strategic thinking is essential for any role, helping professionals align their goals with the company’s vision. Consider these questions to gauge a candidate’s long-term approach and alignment with your team:

• How would you approach your first 90 days in this role?
• What does a strong partnership look like to you in a professional setting?
• What’s a unique skill or trait that sets you apart?
• Can you share a moment you’re most proud of in your career?
• What’s your perspective on balancing performance feedback with recognition?

Tip: When answering strategic thinking questions, focus on providing specific examples that showcase your ability to align your personal goals with the company’s objectives.

 

Problem-Solving Questions

Problem-solving skills are crucial in any dynamic work environment. These questions help uncover how a candidate thinks on their feet and approaches challenges:

• Tell me about a time you had to handle a challenging situation at work—what was your approach?
• Have you ever had to challenge a decision made by leadership? How did you navigate it?
• Share an example where you persuaded others to consider an alternative solution.
• How have you developed strategies to grow or support talent within a team?
• Can you describe a situation where data influenced a key decision you made?

Tip: Employers value candidates who demonstrate resilience and adaptability. Be sure to highlight your thought process and problem-solving strategies effectively.

 

Leadership Style Questions

Leadership isn’t just about managing people; it’s about inspiring and empowering them. Use these questions to understand a candidate’s leadership philosophy:

• How would you describe your approach to leading and inspiring a team?
• What’s your process for ensuring resources are effectively allocated across projects?
• How have you mentored or supported colleagues to help them achieve their goals?

Tip: Authenticity is key when discussing leadership. Share real-life experiences that highlight your leadership values and impact on others.

General Interview Tips

In addition to asking the right questions, here are a few general tips to help you make the most of your interviews:

• Research the company: Understand the organisation’s mission, values, and recent developments to tailor your responses accordingly.
• Practice your responses: Structure your answers effectively using the STARL method (Situation, Task, Action, Result, Learning).
• Ask thoughtful questions: Demonstrate your interest and curiosity about the role and company by preparing insightful questions of your own.
• Mind your body language: Confidence, eye contact, and active listening can leave a lasting impression.
• Follow up: Sending a thoughtful thank-you email post-interview can reinforce your enthusiasm and professionalism.

Pro Tip: Leverage the STARL Method

Encourage candidates to structure their responses using the STARL method. Using this approach helps ensure responses are clear, concise, and impactful.

• Situation – Set the scene.
• Task – Explain the objective.
• Action – Describe the steps taken.
• Result – Share the outcome.
• Learning – Reflect on key takeaways.

Ready for Your Next Move?

Whether you’re interviewing candidates or preparing for your career move, having the right questions and strategies in place can lead to better opportunities and stronger professional connections. Taking the time to reflect on your experiences and present them effectively will set you up for success.

Here’s to new opportunities and meaningful connections in 2025!