Interview questions

As I've been preparing for interviews lately, I've been rehearsing my 30-second elevator pitch and unique selling point (sounds like futures posts, doesn't it?). As part of this prep, I've been trying to anticipate interview questions that are both technical and behavioral.  As I've been in the interviewer chair before, I always found the behavioral questions to provide the most insightful answers. As a candidate, answering this questions with clarity and confidence can help to differentiate you from everyone else.

At the end of an interview, there is usually time for the candidate to ask questions to the interviewers. It might be tempting to get out while you’re ahead, but this is really an opportunity to dig in and find out more about the company and the people you might be working for. At the risk of tipping my hand to potential hiring managers, here's a list of questions I keep with me during the interview.

Questions for the hiring manager or leader

• What opportunities exist for professional development within the organization? Is there a budget for training and conferences? 
• What is the biggest challenge facing your team in the next 3 months / 6 months or year?
• What's the goal setting process like? How are goals tied to employee performance? 
• What does "DevOps" mean to you? May not apply to all fields. 

Questions for peers? 

• What is your day-to-day like? 
• What's the physical workspace like? Cubicles? Tables? open seating? 
• What is a typical week of on-call like? 
• What's the on-boarding process for this position? 
• How long have you worked there? 
• What makes you stay? 
• What attracted you to the organization? 

Some of these questions might be answered through the course of the discussion. However, it's good to ask at least one or two questions. It shows that you are interested and engaged in the process. Having questions ready also shows that you are a prepared candidate. All of which hopefully leads to a good impression.