If you’ve made it to interview your job search is clearly going well. As you prepare for that interview your focus will naturally be on how you’ll answer the questions you’ll be asked. Thinking about your previous experiences, achievements and anything else that demonstrates your problem solving, communication, time management and leadership skills will give you the confidence you need to showcase all your best bits.
If the interview goes well, you might even dare to think you could have this one in the bag. Until, that is, the final question is asked – the one that had slipped your mind entirely: Do you have any questions for us?
There are two sides to any interview and the questions you ask are just as important as the ones you answer. Not only does asking the right questions show you’re interested in the role and the company, it also helps you decide if you’d be happy working for that employer and whether your respective goals are aligned.
Being inquisitive during an interview helps you stand out from the crowd. It’s your chance to actively participate in the interview process. By choosing the right questions you can end the interview feeling as confident as you were when it started.
Here are ten questions that could help you ace your next job interview.
1 How would you describe the company culture?
This question shows you recognise how you work at your best. It demonstrates that you are keen to work in a positive environment and are focused on achieving the right fit.
2 Why did you choose to work here?
This question will give you insight into how existing employees view the company: it’s a great way to get insider information.
3 How does this role fit into the overall structure of the organisation?
Asking this shows you are an enthusiastic team player. It says you are looking for ways to make a valuable contribution and how that would affect others in the company.
4 What training do you offer?
This is a classic question that gets asked a lot – and for good reason. It highlights your desire to develop your skills and add value to the business.
5 What are the biggest challenges for the business today?
By asking this question you are showing both awareness and determination: you recognise there will be challenges but are willing to work through them to get the best result. It also highlights how your skills could help.
6 What are the biggest opportunities for the business today?
The flipside of the previous question, this one demonstrates you’re keen to grab opportunities as they come your way. It could also highlight future focuses within the company.
7 How do you measure and evaluate performance?
This shows you want to deliver tangible results. It flags you up as someone who is committed to getting the best possible outcomes and improving your own performance (and that of the business).
8 Will there be opportunities for promotion in the future?
If you want to show you’re ambitious, this is a great way to do it.
9 What are the next steps?
A great question to show you are eager to move forward in the process. It will also help you find out about the timeframe for making the final decision.
10 Do you have any doubts about my suitability for this role?
Not only does this show you are open to constructive criticism, it also allows you to address any weaknesses the interviewer may think you have. Plus, it lets you re-emphasize your key strengths.
You’re ready to land your dream job
Choosing the most effective questions (avoiding any about salary or benefits) will help you find out if a position is right for you. The questions you ask will depend on the culture of the organisation, so choose carefully. Company culture is one of the most important elements in attracting and retaining candidates today, so make sure your new company has a culture in which you can thrive.
