10 Questions Turkish Managers Should Ask International Hiring Managers
Over the 10 years in executive recruitment in Türkiye - and now as a Job Search Coach working closely with mid-senior level Turkish professionals - I’ve noticed a common pattern:
Many Turkish managers hesitate to ask questions during job interviews, especially when speaking with international Hiring Managers (= their future boss).
But here’s the thing: In Europe, not asking any questions is often seen as a red flag.🚩
I’ve sat in on hundreds of shortlist interviews between European hiring managers and Turkish candidates.
When the candidate stays silent at the end, the feedback is almost always the same:
“They didn’t seem very interested.”
“They weren’t prepared.”
“I’m not sure they’re motivated.”
Of course, cultural context matters. In Türkiye, staying quiet or “just listening” is often a sign of respect - especially toward authority. But in international job markets, asking thoughtful questions shows curiosity, confidence, and professionalism.
That’s why I always encourage my clients to prepare a few questions in advance.
It’s your chance to:
🟡 Learn more about the role, your future manager, and the company culture
🟡 Show genuine interest and motivation
🟡 Decide whether the role truly fits your career goals
A job interview is not a one-way street. You’re not just being evaluated - you’re evaluating them too. And great questions help you do exactly that.
Here are 10 smart, strategic questions you can ask in your next interview:
1. How does this role contribute to the company’s strategic goals?
→ Shows you think big picture and want to create value.
2. What are the team’s current challenges?
→ Reveals where your support is needed most.
3. What does success look like in the first 3 or 6 months?
→ Clarifies expectations early on.
4. How is feedback typically shared here?
→ Helps you prepare for the culture of communication.
5. What’s the onboarding process like for international hires?
→ A practical question that also shows you’re already thinking ahead.
6. How would you describe your leadership style?
→ Opens up a conversation about how you’ll work together.
7. If you could describe the team culture in one word, what would it be?
→ A creative way to get a real answer, fast.
8. What are the biggest opportunities for the team this year?
→ Gives insight into upcoming projects or strategic changes.
9. How are decisions made within the team?
→ Helps you understand hierarchy and autonomy.
10. What’s something you personally enjoy about working here?
→ Ends the interview on a personal and memorable note.
📌Pro tip:
Before the interview, take time to research the company — their business, values, recent projects, and market moves. Then, build your questions based on what you’ve found.
The more specific your questions, the more you show genuine curiosity and preparation.
Don’t be afraid to bring up what you’ve read or seen. It shows that you care and that you’re already thinking like an insider.
💬 For example:
“I watched a recent interview with the CEO where they mentioned plans to expand into new markets. Could you share more about what kind of challenges the company expects during this process?”
This kind of question does three things:
✔ Shows you’ve done your homework
✔ Starts a deeper conversation about the business
✔ Highlights your strategic thinking
Asking smart, relevant questions isn’t just a nice to have - it’s a must in international interviews. It helps you connect with the hiring manager, shows your motivation, and helps you make the right career choice.
So go into your next interview not just with answers - but with great questions, too. That’s how you leave a lasting impression.
Wishing you all the best in your career change!
Your Job Search Coach Inuta
(the one who celebrates your win with a cake🍰)
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Hi, I’m Inuta Sert.
A Career Coach and former Executive Recruiter in Türkiye.
I help mid to senior-level professionals in securing more interviews and getting the right job in Türkiye and abroad.
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