Five Questions you should Ask in your Job Interview

During an interview there comes a time when the interviewer opens the floor up for the candidate to ask any questions they may have. One of the biggest mistakes that many candidates make is not asking the interviewer anything at all! 

As recruiters, we always advice candidates to do some research and prepare for an interview but also to be ready to ask some questions when you are given the opportunity or at the end of the interview. This is your chance to better understand the company and the culture, and to address any concerns the hiring manager may have with your profile. 

We recommend the below five questions you can ask the interviewer:

•    Have I answered all your questions? Do you need me to clarify/elaborate on anything? 

With this question, the interviewer can clarify any further details regarding your candidacy and assuage any doubts on the strength of your profile. It's an excellent way of identifying any hesitation the interviewer may have about your application and have them resolved right away.  

•    What are the next steps in the hiring process? 

This question further demonstrates your interest in the role and company. It can also help you determine a timeline on when and how to expect a response and gives you an idea of when you should get in touch with the interviewer if they don’t get back to you. Follow up questions include what's the timeline like, who will I be meeting with next, are there any activities/tasks/tests I should be prepared for? 

•    What does the succession plan for this role look like?

This information you would elicit from this question will enable you to understand the scope of your growth within the company and helps you make an informed decision when accepting a new opportunity.

•    What will be some of my key goals/targets to achieve in this role? 

At the end of the day, you are being hired for your skillset to achieve a specific goal or return. Being upfront about this keeps expectations clear on both ends, leaving little room for miscommunication once you’ve assumed the role. 

•    What are some of the challenges or transformations this department is undergoing? 

This determines the placement of your department and eventually your role within the organization. Whether you are being hired as part of the company or department’s digital transformation, or a merger that is introducing a new line of business, it can help you understand the deeper need for your role. This information can help you to position yourself as a strategic asset within the wider business.   

Remember, your questions to the interviewer are ALSO a part of your interview. It gives you an opportunity to make a great impression, present your interest, drive and commitment to the organization. Make sure you make the best use of the opportunity by being prepared and use this list as a head start to create your own questions!

We at Michael Page share lots more career advice, whether it’s to support your job search, CV/cover letter writing, interview tips or growing your career. Visit our Candidate Centre for our resources to support you.