When interviewing for a new job, it can be all too easy to forget that interviews are a two way street. Yes, of course you are there to impress and give fantastic full answers to every question asked, but don’t forget that you’re there to glean more about the company and the position too. Many candidates feel that to ask too many questions can seem rude or demanding. Others seem to think that the interviewer is only asking if there are any questions from the interviewee’s side because they are obliged to. The truth is that this section of the interview is a time to shine and that by asking questions, you are expressing not only an interest in the role and the company, but you’re also presenting more about yourself as a potential employee.
So what should you ask?
There are plenty of obvious blunders, such as asking about salary, holiday, sick leave, etc., but when it comes to subjects you should broach it can get a little trickier. You can ask a few questions but you don’t want to grill your interviewer(s) so you have to make the questions you do ask, count. We have some suggestions to consider for your next interview.
How will I be evaluated? This is not only important to know but also shows that you are already thinking of benchmarks, goals, and KPIs.
Who will I be reporting to? This person may not be in the room when you are interviewed so it’s useful to find out who it is, and of course, it allows you to begin the LinkedIn stalking…
How would you describe the culture of the company? Even if you’re not that interested, this question will make you seem more rounded as an individual. It shows that you are thinking beyond the role and considering the company as a whole.
What development opportunities are there? Candidates are often afraid to ask this one for fear of being seen as someone not interested in staying in the position they are interviewing for. In truth, this is one of the most important questions to ask as you need to know that the company you are looking to join has a future you are going to benefit from. To your interviewer, this question will simply make you seem more driven and dynamic.
How long can I expect to wait before I hear about the job? This isn’t pushy. It’s perfectly acceptable to ask for a timeframe – you’re also busy!
The most important thing to remember with asking questions of your interviewer(s) is to make sure that the subject hasn’t already been covered. If you ask a question that you were already given the information for, they’ll think that you weren’t paying full attention. To avoid this, learn more questions than you’ll be able to ask, so you have a few to choose from.