In the process of recruitment, the interview stage is probably one of the most important and valuable parts of getting hired. It’s not only your first real interaction with your potential future employer, but also the perfect opportunity to show yourself and your career achievements so far. When preparing for interviews, candidates often focus on their achievements and background experience which is the right thing to do. However, at the end of the interview when you’ll be asked “Do you have any questions”, the worst thing you can do is say “No, I’m good”. By having questions for your employer, you increase the chances of securing the job. It will make you look enthusiastic, interested, and engaged, qualities that all employers are looking for.
Because we are you Career partner for life, we are here to help you get the job you want! We suggest you come up with a couple of questions to ask your interviewer. That way, in case one or two are asked during the interview, you still have backups in place.
In case you need some inspiration, here are some questions:
- What does a typical day or week look like in this role?
- What are the most immediate projects that need to be addressed? Or What are the most important things you’d like to see someone accomplish in the first 30, 60, and 90 days on the job?
- Can you show me examples of projects I’d be working on?
- What types of skills is the team missing that you’re looking to fill with a new hire?
- What are the biggest challenges that someone in this position would face?
- How does this position contribute to the company overall?
- Do you expect the main responsibilities for this position to change in the next six months to a year?
- What learning and professional development opportunities are available to your employees?
- Are there opportunities for advancement within the company?
- What are the performance expectations of this position over the first 12 months?
- What direction do you see this company heading in over the next few years?
- What can you tell me about your new products or plans for growth?
- How does the company ensure its upholding its values?
- How would you describe the work environment here—is the work typically more collaborative or more independent?
- You can also ask questions about the interviewer
- How long have you been with the company?
- Has your role changed since you’ve been here?
- What’s your favourite part about working here?
- What’s one challenge you occasionally or regularly face in your job?
- Smart questions to ask about the team
- Can you tell me about the team I’ll be working with?
- Who will I work with most closely?
- Who will I report to directly?
- What are the team’s biggest strengths and challenges?
Extra Tip.
- Try to avoid questions that focus too much on you or on what the company can do for you.
- Stay away from yes or no questions (as you're likely to find this information on the company's website).
- It’s understandable to ask the interviewer to clarify certain points but avoid asking about anything that has been previously mentioned, as it might make them think you haven’t been paying attention.
For more tips on interviews and getting your dream jobs, click here.
