Job applicants sometimes do not know the right questions to ask after interviews, and oftentimes blow their opportunities because of the questions asked.
Here are some good questions you should ask at an interview:
- Please describe the culture of your organization:
What this question does is subtly pass a message to the interviewer that you are also interested in whether the organization is the right fit for you. It is important that you are comfortable with the culture. - Please shed more light on the day-to-day responsibilities of this role?
You don’t want to be hired for a role you thought was admin only to be asked to go make tea for everyone. Learning the day-to-day tasks also gives an insight to specific skills and strengths needed. - Can you outline the typical career path for someone in this role?
Here, the interviewer will sense your need for career advancement. It also indicates your interest in growing within the org. However, don’t ask in a way that’d sound self-serving. - What important qualities do I need to excel in this role?
Oftentimes, there are some valuable information that’s not included in the job description. This question can help unfold more about the expectations. That way, you can work towards being a good fit. - What are the main challenges and opportunities the organization is facing?
Thing is, if you know the org has recently launched a service / product you could work this into the question by asking how it’s is being received – this also shows them that you’ve done your research. - Can you tell me a bit about your background?
The interview should never be about you and the role alone. It’s good to also show interest in the interviewer / recruiter. This also helps in building rapport & finding common ground with the person interviewing you. - How is success defined for the team I will be working in?
This question will help highlight the organization’s priorities. Hence, you can compare and contrast with your own goals. It will also clarify what the business expects from their teams. - Is there anything we haven’t discussed or that you want to know that would help you with the hiring decision?
This question helps you offer the opportunity to fill any gaps that the interviewer might have noticed. It also helps you dot all ‘i’s and cross all ‘t’s. - Can you tell me the challenges I might face if hired for this role?
This is another opportunity for the interviewer to talk about the specifics of the role. It is also aimed at selling yourself. Like, “Oh, I faced a similar challenge, but here’s how I handled it…” - What are the next steps and when should I be expecting to hear from you?
What this question does is show that you are eager to move to the next stage. It also helps you gain vital info about the timeline for hiring. That way, you can follow-up appropriately.
