Page 109 - Boost Your Hiring

The Manager’s Hiring IQ Test 95

INTERVIEWER’S QUESTION
44. Changes seem to be a way of life in our industry. Give me
an example of how you keep abreast of the latest news and
trends.
Which response actually answers the question? Which answer
should you be wary of? Are there any red flags?
(A) “I do a great deal of reading, especially magazine articles. Part
of strategic planning is to envision what is next. My major job
has been product enhancement and extensions of the business.
I have to admit that I left a big part of new technology research
to my team members. I believe it is impossible to be an expert
in all areas, and I rely on others to fill me in. I see my job as the
bottom line accountability that will create significant new and
profitable business.”
(B) “I embrace technology and am an advocate of how it is chang-
ing our world and the way we do business. I use all the stan-
dard applications available and have a solid understanding of
the basics of technology for this industry. I attend meetings
and conferences on a regular basis to hear what is happening in
other companies. I also belong to the industry association and
attend monthly meetings, and I network with other execu-
tives. In addition I read four newspapers, and I subscribe to on-
line news blogs, which I find invaluable. I find one of my best
resources is my internal IT department members. I meet with
the leaders of the department on a weekly basis.”
(C) “I tend to view technology as somewhat out of my area of ex-
pertise. I use the Internet for research, and of course I use e-
mail, but beyond that I don’t get involved in the day-to-day
issues. I have remained savvy regarding the latest manage-
ment systems software, but my primary goal has been to ex-
ceed revenue expectations. The IT function is managed by
experts. I trust my managers and as a result can focus more on
the marketing of product and the customer track. I set high
standards for myself and my staff and feel that ethical conduct
is one of the most essential factors in a person. I try to foster
that.”

I think the strongest answer is _____.