27 questions you can ask during a job interview
In this list, you’ll find inspiring questions to ask an employer during a job interview that are guaranteed to leave a positive impression!
Why ask questions during a job interview?
A successful job interview is a two-way street involving the organisation and you. The company wants to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for the role and if you’ll fit in with the team. They’re interested in your experience, level of knowledge, and aspirations. They’ll grill you with questions to find all of this out. However, it’s equally important for you to ask good questions in return. This serves a few purposes, such as:
1. Demonstrating your genuine interest in the position.
2. Proving your thorough preparation.
3. Showcasing your level of expertise.
4. Allowing you to gather important information about the organisation. This information helps you make an informed decision about whether you want to work there.
When should you ask these questions during the interview?
Ideally, you want a job interview to feel like a normal conversation rather than an interrogation. That’s why it’s a good idea to slip your questions into the conversation. Respond to the answers you receive by asking follow-up questions.
An interview typically concludes with the question directed to you: “Is there anything else you would like to know?” Take a moment to ensure that you’ve asked all the questions you’ve prepared. You might feel uncertain about a specific question, but if it helps you make a better decision, feel free to ask it!
What are good questions to ask?
So, what are the right questions to ask? A good question is one that you couldn’t have answered on your own through research. For example: “How many people work here?” This is information you can likely find elsewhere. Instead, focus on substantive questions about aspects such as the company’s strategy, products or services, role, team structure, work methodology, organisational culture, and the company’s future plans. This demonstrates that you’ve done your homework and earns you points! Now, let’s delve into some examples. We’ve compiled 27 strong questions for you:
Questions about the role
1. What does a typical workday look like?
2. What is expected of me in the first few months?
3. What specific responsibilities will I have?
4. Should I strictly adhere to the job description, or am I encouraged to take initiative?
5. What is the biggest challenge associated with this role?
6. How is success evaluated in this position?
7. Could you describe the composition of the team?
8. With whom will I be collaborating most frequently?
9. How would you define the ideal candidate for this position?
10. What is the salary? (In case it’s not mentioned in the job posting or shared by the recruiter)
Questions about the company
11. Can you describe the company culture within the organisation?
12. What measures do you take to maintain a positive work environment?
13. How would you describe the management style within the company?
14. What is the primary reason employees enjoy working here?
15. Are there opportunities for further education and training?
16. Are there opportunities for professional growth within the company?
17. What are the company’s future plans?
18. What are the major challenges the company is currently facing?
19. What innovative projects is the company currently engaged in?
20. What efforts are being made to promote equal opportunities and diversity?
21. What is the company’s approach to sustainability?
22. Is hybrid working an option?
23. Are the working hours fixed or flexible?
Unique questions
An additional tip: always save an original question for last. This way, you leave a unique and lasting impression! These are questions that only some other candidates would ask, perhaps because they might be hesitant. For instance:
24. What do you enjoy most about working here?
25. Could you share the best and worst moments you’ve experienced at this company?
26. What changes would you implement if you had an unlimited budget?
27. Can I speak with an employee in a similar role about their experience?
Select relevant questions for you
Ultimately, asking questions relevant to you and your career goals is the most important thing. Feel free to ask what you truly want to know about the role or the company. Gathering as much information as possible during the interview process helps you make an informed decision if an offer is extended to you. Looking to go into your job interview well-prepared? Read more tips for your preparation here
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