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Business meeting with word Culture on table

Culture fit isn’t about liking the same music or team lunches.<blockquote>It’s about understanding how people work, communicate, and succeed together.</blockquote>These 3 questions go deeper, and help you figure out if you’ll actually thrive in that environment:<ol><li>How does this team typically give and receive feedback? This shows you how communication works, and whether growth is encouraged or avoided. </li><li>Can you share an example of how the team handled a challenge or conflict recently? Reveals how people collaborate under pressure, and if trust is really part of the culture. </li><li>What does success look like on this team, beyond the job description? Helps you understand if excellence is defined by metrics, teamwork, ownership, or something else.</li></ol>These are the questions that protect you from joining the wrong team, even if the job sounds right.Next up: Smart questions to ask when you reach the final round.&nbsp;

Culture fit isn’t about liking the same music or team lunches

Pensive businesswoman with doodle question marks, copy space

Most candidates think the hard part is answering questions. But the strongest ones know how to ask them, especially when they're speaking to the hiring manager. (Following up on a recent post about phone screen strategy…)Here are 3 smart questions that show maturity, impact thinking, and business awareness:<ol><li>What’s the biggest decision this person will need to make in the first few months? This reveals the real priorities behind the role, not just tasks, but trust. </li><li>What do you wish more people understood about this role or team? You’ll uncover blind spots, pressure points, and where you can bring fresh perspective. </li><li>How does this role impact other teams or business outcomes? Shows you’re already thinking beyond your desk, and aligned with results.</li></ol><blockquote>Great interviews aren’t just about your answers. &nbsp;They’re shaped by the questions you ask and how well you connect the dots.</blockquote>Next: Smart questions to ask about team dynamics and culture. Coming next week.

Most candidates think the hard part is answering questions

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Culture fit isn’t about liking the same music or team lun...

Most candidates think the hard part is answering questions