I often ask for feedback during the interview. If I'm interested in a position, I'll typically ask the hiring manager what reservations or concerns she may hav

I often ask for feedback during the interview. If I'm interested in a position, I'll typically ask the hiring manager what reservations or concerns she may have about hiring me. Factual errors aside I make it a point not to debate those concerns at the time (and I make it clear up front that I'm not going to try to talk them out of their concerns), but I've found: A) You typically get fairly honest answers this way (in part because the question catches the interviewer off-guard, which is generally a good way to get an honest response). B) The feedback is useful for adapting your presentation and pitch at another firm. and C) If you get the job this is very useful information to have. It tells you what your new boss views as important and what skills she thinks you are lacking, often with a candor you won't get if you ask the same question on your first day on the job. EDIT/PS: I'm trying to think how I'd react to this sitting on the other side of the desk. I've done a lot of interviews but I don't think anyone has ever asked me this question. I certainly give vague non-answers when I'm rejecting a candidate after the fact (typically something like "we've found someone who is a better match...") but if I was asked in the interview I'd probably give an honest answer but it would be focused around the work instead of the candidate, which probably makes it easier to deliver.