Although hiring managers are the most visible members of the hiring team during the interview process, they are not the only people who will influence the final decision.
If you are lucky, you may get the chance to have a roundtable interview or another sit down with your future teammates in a peer interview.
Make sure you ask them –
- Would you mind telling me about your jobs and what you do?
People love talking about themselves and this will open the line of communication. By asking great follow-up questions, you will establish a rapport.
- What advice would you give a new hire trying to succeed on your team?
Make sure you ask the question of everyone. Listen carefully to the answers.
First, the question places value in their answers. It also shows that you are open to learning and flexible to adapt to your colleagues’ needs. The question also reveals the strengths and weaknesses of the business.
- What do you hope a new hire will bring to the team?
Some colleagues may feel threatened, that you may shine more or worse yet replace someone on the team. Reassure them that you are there to perform your position and only that.
By listening to each person’s answer carefully, you may find that your strengths match some of their hopes and help you sell yourself and bond.
- How do you like to work with others? What kind of collaboration works best for you? Zoom Meetings, phone call, email, text or in-person?
Asking this question of your future colleagues, opens the door for future communication and collaboration, which makes them feel valued.
This also shows that you are willing to bend, be flexible and most of all become a valuable member of the team!