Originally asked on Quora, the question is, “How can one uncover a manager’s traits in an interview?”

As one of the top Temp Agencies Tampa has to offer, we wanted to take a stab at an answer. There are a lot of ways a job seeker can uncover the hidden personality of the manager, but far too few of them take the extra step to do so. Here are some of the things you can consider and questions you can ask in your next interview.

Find out what you have in common.

One of the best ways to really get inside a manager’s head is to humanize them. You don’t want to ask inappropriate questions that will be unrelated to the job, but try to find out what you and the potential manager have in common. Talk about work styles, accomplishments, and ask them about how they got to where they are today.

Learn what motivates the manager.

At the next level, find out what it is that motivates them to get up and come to work each day. Why do they do what they do? How can you tap into that excitement for the business while still sitting across the desk from the hiring manager? This will help connect your strengths to the things that are motivating in the company.

Ask them why they like their job.

When they ask you if you have any questions, the worst thing you can say is “No.” If you can’t think of anything else that would help you better understand the job, ask the manager why they like working for the company. You will find out more about the corporate culture and the individual personality traits of the manger themselves.

Ask how they determine success.

Another great question is to determine how the company, and the manager specifically, determines success in their department. Is it based on sales and revenue or on creativity and innovation? This can give you a lot of insight on what the manager will expect from you as an employee if you are offered and accept the job.

Find the Job That’s Right For You

Want to add some flexibility to your career? Earn extra income? Create a path to your dream career? You deserve to be treated as more than just another applicant. At StaffEx you’ll get personal attention, advice and guidance that will lead you to the right job. View our available jobs in Tampa or contact us today.