Job Interview Advice

[Cappy]

I'm interviewing (2nd round) for a fully remote role in Ed Tech. I've been in higher ed for 20 years. Everything seems to be moving along faster than I'm used to and I want to be sure that I do my part to ask good questions and really assess the opportunity. I'm simultaneously excited and scared. What are some good questions to ask to assess organizational culture for a remote role? I guess I'm mostly wondering how I ask about autonomy and culture without sounding like a slacker or lone wolf. I've been remote in my current role during Covid but it's different since I was already established with my team and trusted. I'm a very hard worker and great on teams, but can't function in an environment where I feel monitored or someone else books my appointments. It gives me massive anxiety to be micromanaged.

[Cappy]

Good point mofongo, I'll XP

[ellipses84]

How long has the role been remote? Either way you can ask them to describe the onboarding process and communication tools for remote workers. You can also ask about organizational structure, the hierarchy and admin support. That could lead into more questions about scheduling but I’d only get into those details if you feel it’s your last interview and you are likely to get the offer (you can also ask about the rest of the interview process if they haven’t described it to you).

Ask them to describe the culture and ask about virtual or in person events for team building. They may have weekly or monthly larger groups mtgs, happy hours, etc. virtually or a once a year in person conference. Or they may do nothing and leave it up to teams or departments.

[Cappy]

Thank you, ellipses84,

These are great approaches. The remote part is not new to the role or Covid-related. It is one of the reasons I've been watching the company for so long. All the Sales, Client Support and Product Management teams are remote unless they happen to live local. The Exec Leadership, Product Development, and HR are based out of headquarters.

[sexycarrot]

“A lot of companies had to pivot quickly to remote work with the pandemic and I know some did it better than others. What a great position this company must have been in to already have it mastered! What have you found works best when it comes to supervision/oversight/communication from management/involvement from management/teamwork (however you want to frame it)?”

Makes it conversational and lets them share what they consider their strengths in the area. They may say it varies, so you can follow up asking specifically about this position.

Honestly, if this is important to you and will make or break your satisfaction at this job, ask. Don’t be demanding, but be clear about your question—although I agree to wait on this clarity until a later interview if this is a first interview and there will be other opportunity to ask after they have shown interest in you.