Posted in Career Best Practices

The Question You Should Always Ask in an Interview (And Why It Matters)

Asking strong questions during a job interview is as important as answering them. Questions show engagement in the conversation and interest in the role.

One question you always should ask the hiring manager during an interview is, “If the new hire were to attain one thing that would blow your mind, what would it be?” This question has helped candidates get hired on the spot.

Why the Achievement Question Matters

The question about which new hire achievement would blow the hiring manager’s mind the most demonstrates strategic thinking. Proactive planning shows you go above and beyond to provide organizational value.

The achievement question creates space for the hiring manager to discuss what would be possible if they hired and collaborated with you. Also, using playful language shows confidence. Plus, demonstrating your personality helps you stand out and be remembered.

What the Achievement Question Reveals

Asking the hiring manager which one thing would blow their mind if the new hire accomplished it uncovers the manager’s biggest challenge. The answer helps determine whether the role is right for you and whether you can attain the goal. You can use the manager’s response to determine whether to further the conversation.

If you want to move to the next step in the hiring process, consider how you could solve the manager’s problem. Going above and beyond to benefit the company shows you can quickly begin producing.

Tips to Maximize the Achievement Question

When asked which new hire achievement would blow their mind, the hiring manager likely will smile and think for a minute. Then, they should respond with their current goals and how the new hire would perform or over-perform. You can share a similar goal you reached to demonstrate your ability to add value.

For instance, the hiring manager might say, “It would blow my mind if the new hire sold our product at one hundred percent of their quota within six months.” If you have experience performing at this level, you could respond, “I did just that! I hit one hundred sixty percent of the company’s trainee quota within six months of starting my current role.”

Conversely, if you did not attain the hiring manager’s goal, you might ask follow-up questions to show enthusiasm for delivering the desired performance. For instance, you could inquire whether any new hire sold the company’s product at one hundred percent of their quota within six months and how they achieved the goal. Then, clarify that you have the necessary skills to reach the objective.

For instance, “Building relationships in new industries sounds essential for your top sales performers. I have engaged in this activity at [company name] in [industry] for five years and am confident I can bring them here as clients.”

Would You Like Additional Interview Assistance?

PrideStaff is here to help. With offices nationwide and teams of interview experts, we can provide employment opportunities, job search guidance, and career advancement support. Contact the PrideStaff office in your area to learn more about great local job opportunities today.

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