This post originally appeared onThe Muse.
You could drive yourself insane trying to figure out what exactly is going on behind that diplomatic smile.
In general, employers are looking for the best technical and cultural fit that their budgets will allow for.
Have You Successfully Done Similar Work in the Past?
Really, the question should be more along the lines of, “Can you do the job?”
but that’s not always the easiest thing to evaluate.
Any chance you get, you should be talking about your relevant experience and transferable skills.
Of course, it’s not always just about results.
Being able to talk aboutwhyyou were successful is also important.Tell storiesabout your previous experience, and be introspective.
Will You Work Well With My Current Team?
How exactly can a hiring manager discern whether or not you’ll work out?
And remember: There’s no right or wrong answer here.
What Do You Know About My Company?
Do the company research beforehand, and show off what you know in both your answersandyour questions.
Does the Job You’re Expecting Align With What the Job Actually Is?
To get to the point, can the company afford to hire you?
The current salary question will likely come up at some point as well.
In the end, there are a hundred different questions that could get at this concern.
To prepare in a realistic amount of time, figure out what your career narrative is.
Where did you come from, where are you going, and why?
How does this job fit in with your goals?
Oh, andread up on negotiation.
Are You Confident in Your Abilities?
If you’re short on time, get a pep talk from your support connection of friends and mentors.
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