At the conclusion of every job interview, candidates are often presented with the opportunity to pose questions to their interviewers. Astonishingly, many respond with a simple "No" - missing a chance to gain crucial insights into the company they are contemplating joining for 40-plus hours a week! The reluctance to ask questions might stem from concerns about the inquiry being perceived as a trap, or fear of appearing demanding. However, utilising this opportunity can provide valuable information about the job and company culture.
To aid candidates in making informed decisions, here are ten compelling questions to consider asking during a job interview:
Questions About the Position:
- How will you measure the success of the person in this position? Uncover the key performance indicators and expectations that will define your success in the role, offering a more nuanced understanding than the job description might provide.
- What are some of the challenges you expect the person in this position to face? Gain insights into potential hurdles, such as interdepartmental politics or budget restrictions, not evident in the job description.
- Can you describe a typical day or week in the job? Understand the daily responsibilities and work mix, helping you visualize your routine in the role.
- How long did the previous person in the role hold the position? What has turnover in the role generally been like? Assess the stability of the role by exploring the tenure of previous occupants and the turnover history.
Questions About Your Success in the Position:
- What are you hoping this person will accomplish in their first six months and in their first year? Gauge the expectations for your initial performance, providing insights into the learning curve and the pace of the team.
- Thinking back to people you’ve seen do this work previously, what differentiated the ones who were good from the ones who were really great at it? Showcase your drive for excellence while gaining a deeper understanding of the qualities that make a candidate stand out.
Questions About the Company:
- How would you describe the culture here? What type of people tend to thrive here, and what type don’t do as well? Evaluate the interviewer's perspective on company culture, understanding which traits are valued and whether they align with your preferences.
- What do you enjoy about working here? Assess the interviewer's enthusiasm for their job and the company, providing insights into the workplace environment.
- Ask the question you really care about. Tailor a question based on your specific concerns or priorities, ensuring you gather information crucial for your decision-making.
Questions About Next Steps:
- What’s your timeline for next steps? Obtain clarity on the post-interview process, managing expectations and allowing for effective follow-ups based on the provided timeline.
By proactively posing these questions, candidates can transform the interview process into a two-way street, ensuring they gather essential information to make an informed decision about their potential future with the company.