Graduates: What questions should I ask in a job interview?

Graduating from university and stepping into the job market can be both exciting and overwhelming. You’ve polished your CV, sent out applications, and now, you've secured that  really important job interview. While most graduates focus on preparing answers to potential questions, there’s another crucial aspect often overlooked: asking questions during the interview.

The questions you ask can say a lot about your readiness, curiosity, and interest in the company. Not only do they help you determine if the role and the organization are the right fit for you, but they also allow you to showcase your engagement. So, what should you ask to make a good impression and receive positive feedback?

1. What are the key challenges facing this department or team?

This question shows you're not just thinking about the role itself, but you're also curious about the broader challenges and how your future role might address them. It reflects strategic thinking and a desire to contribute in a meaningful way from day one.

Why ask it? 

It helps you understand the team's dynamics and priorities, besides of how it works. If the company is transparent and honest about their challenges, you'll get a clear idea of where you can add value and whether it's the type of environment where you'd thrive.

2. What does success look like in this role during the first six months?

Understanding what the company defines as success is key to evaluating whether your skills and strengths align with their expectations and you can make achievements. It also helps you get a sense of the learning curve and how you can prioritize your time and efforts if you get the role.

Why ask it?

This question will give you an idea into what the company’s short-term goals for the position are, and it shows you're already thinking ahead about how to be excellent in the role. Plus, it helps you see whether the expectations are realistic for a new graduate like you.

3. How would you describe the company culture?

The work environment is just as important as the job itself. Asking about the company culture gives you a sense of how people interact, if teaming up is encouraged, and how the company supports its employees' personal and professional growth.

Why ask it? 

A company's culture can have a huge impact on your work experience. Some graduates do bestin high-pressure environments, while others might perform better in a more supportive, team-oriented setting. This helps you understand if it’s a place where you’ll feel comfortable and motivated.

4. What is the typical career path for someone in this role?

As a graduate, it's important to understand where this job could take you. Will this role give you the experience and skills needed to move forward in your career, or is it more of a dead-end position? Knowing the typical career path can help you decide if it's the right stepping stone for your future goals.

Why ask it? 

It shows you're thinking long-term and are serious about career progression. It also helps clarify if there’s room for growth within the company and how previous employees in the role have advanced.

5. How do you measure performance in this role?

Knowing how the company evaluates success is crucial. It helps you understand what your daily, weekly, or monthly goals might look like, and it gives you an idea of whether the company's expectations align with your working style.

Why ask it?

This question highlights your interest in being accountable and achieving the company’s targets. It also offers insight into how transparent and structured the organization is when it comes to performance reviews and feedback.

6. Can you provide an example of a recent project or task that someone in this role worked on?

Getting specific examples of what someone in the role has done recently can give you a clearer picture of the daily responsibilities and challenges you might face. It also shows you’re interested in real-world applications of the job.

Why ask it?

This question will provide practical insight into what the role entails beyond the job description, helping you assess if it’s something you’ll enjoy and excel at.

7. What are the next steps in the interview process?

Finally, it’s important to know what to expect after the interview ends. Asking about the next steps shows you're eager to move forward and stay informed.

Why ask it? 

It demonstrates you're organized and serious about the role. It also gives you clarity on the timeline, so you know when to expect feedback and follow up.

Final Thoughts

Asking insightful questions during a job interview isn’t just about impressing the interviewer; it’s about making sure the position aligns with your goals, values, and aspirations. As a graduate, you're entering a competitive job market, and the interview process goes both ways. The questions you ask can help differentiate you from other candidates and ensure that you're choosing the right role for your future.

Remember, the interview is your opportunity to learn as much about the company as they are learning about you. So be prepared, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to ask questions that matter to you!