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When interviewers ask about your 30-60-90 plan, what’s your answer?

It’s more than knowing the bathroom location, best lunch spots, or the CEO’s favourite colour. It’s a question generally asked during manager-level interviews, but it’s important to always prepare a response, even for a short-term paid internship. If you’re not asked about your 30-60-90 plan, pick a question that closely relates and answer with your 30-60-90-day objectives.

Example

Why are you a strong candidate for our inside sales representative position?

I’m the best applicant for this position because I’ve worked in a similar, fast-paced environment for more than four years and have developed exceptional customer service skills. If selected for this position, by the end of my first month, I expect to generate at least five hot leads and bring in two new accounts for the organization.

Why did you apply to our inside sales representative position?

I applied to this position because I know my exceptional customer service skills and four-plus years working in a similar, fast-paced environment will translate to success in this position. If selected, I expect to generate at least five hot leads and bring in two new accounts for the organization by the end of my first month.

The general guideline for 30-60-90 plans is meeting/learning in the first month, planning/pitching in the second, and executing/performing in the third – but there is no correct answer as they vary by industry, role, and level. For short-term contracts, expectations are accelerated so you’ll have to execute and perform in the first month.

Your 30-60-90 plan doesn’t have to perfectly match the interviewers’ expectations, but it should reflect what the position entails. Read every detail of the job posting thoroughly to develop an understanding of what your prospective boss will expect from you. Your answer demonstrates your thought process, knowledge of the organization’s challenges and objectives, and your understanding of the position and its responsibilities. By researching the company, you’ll also exhibit your initiative and genuine interest in the position.

And if picked for the job, you’ve already got a plan!