Message #30645

[deedee]

I always carry a notebook/organizer and say "I have written down a number of my questions; would you mind if I refer to my notes?"  No one ever objects.  Then I ask, and take notes on the replies to questions like:
What skills and personal qualities would your ideal candidate have?
If there is a formal evaluation system, what criteria are used?  You can start by saying that you intend to work hard and prove your value.  The answer to this question can give you an idea as to how closely the criteria reflect the goals of the job description.
Ask what the reporting relationship is (tells you if you will work for one person or are expected to be the all-around drudge/workhorse for 60 people)
If you think about a typical week at Your Company (fill in company name here), what aspects do you like most?  Like least?
Can you tell me about some of the people who have been highly successful in this position--people who did a great job?
Can you tell me about people who worked for you in the past who didn't work out so well, or whose work you valued less?
In a year from now, what kinds of improvements would you like to see in place, which don't exist now?
Of course you will want to know why the job is open, but I always end by saying, "What else can I tell you about myself or my career experience we haven't discussed?"

My own personal list of things I'm looking for in a boss, if they ask, include:
Looking for a boss who:
Focuses on accomplishments (not personality, though I don't add that)
Can and will teach me
Will evaluate work progress objectively
Rewards results, not mediocrity
Solicits and accepts feedback
Sets goals for me and will be there while I strive to reach them
Communicates frequently, openly, and genuinely
Encourages empowerment

Sorry for the length of this, but I think it's important to stress what a really professional assistant is capable of even though, as a friend used to say, "We toil unseen - as a desert flower blooms."
good luck!