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Love it or hate it, this question is always going to come up in an interview. It can feel intimidating as you’re essentially having the reigns handed over to you but as with any part of an interview, being prepared for it is key. Here’s some advice from the CA Financial Appointments team to help you take control of this section of the interview process.
Remember that the interview is for you, too
They are interviewing you to find out if you are the right fit for the job, company and culture, and it works both ways. The interview is also your opportunity to find out if you will be happy in the new position. When you keep this in mind, this question becomes far less intimidating and far more useful to you.
“No, not really” or “No, I think we covered everything” are the wrong answers
Both of these may well be true for you, but never, ever answer this way. You must ask questions, regardless of whether the answers provide information you didn’t particularly want to know. This question is about more than gaining information. It’s about expressing interest and commitment to the potential new company and role.
Prepare a long list before the interview
Preparation is key, as we always say, but for this question, arm yourself with as extensive a list as you can muster. If you only prepare 2-3 questions, there’s a good chance they’ll be answered over the course of the interview and then you’ll be stuck between stumbling for a new question or asking your prepared ones and looking as though you weren’t paying attention.
Seek information that you can’t find on their website
If you ask questions that have easy to find answers it will look very obvious to the interviewer that you’re simply obliging them for politeness’ sake or that you didn’t research the company before the interview.
Some choice examples of good questions to ask
How would you describe the company culture here?
Could you tell me about a typical day in the role (that you are going for)
What type of person tends to thrive in your company?
Can you tell me how my performance will be measured?
Do you have any concerns about my ability to do this job at present?
Don’t be afraid to be a little probing with your questions. Remember that the interview is for you as well and that should you get the job, you’ll be doing it 9-5, Mon-Fri. You need to be as sure about taking role as they need to be that you’ll be great in it. There’s a lot to be gained from making the most of this section of the interview.