(Note: Before you even read this article, I encourage you to read Source Blogger’s “Top 10 Things To Bring To Your Next Job Interview“)
One would think that the most important questions at a job interview would entail areas surrounding their background, experience, and methods of strategic planning and problem resolution… and for the most that would be correct. But, one of the most ignored aspects of the job interview is the opportunity to ask questions at the end.
An interview often consists of four parts 1) You, 2) Company, 3) Position, 4) Your Questions — What’s that? You don’t normally ask very many questions? If your questions are such a major part of the interview, and you are not asking them, what message does that convey to the interviewer?
What do you think is the most common answer to the question: “Do you have any questions?” The real answer may surprise you… or it may be your typical response!
We will find out the answer to that question as well when we take a look at “Top 10 Questions To Ask At Your Next Job Interview “.
Top 10 Questions To Ask At Your Next Job Interview
Surprisingly, the most common answer to the interview question, “Do you have any questions?” is no. Not only is this the wrong answer, but it’s also a missed opportunity to create dialogue that may lead to continued interest by the organization. It is important for you to ask questions — not just any questions, but those relating to the job, the company and the industry.
In the past, when I have asked a candidate, even a management-level or executive-level candidate did he/she have more questions, the response was often: ”No, I think you just about covered everything I wanted to know. I’m sure I’ll have more questions if I get the job.”
This is a very passive response that doesn’t demonstrate interest or imagination. Once you get the job — if you get it — may be too late to ask questions.
For me, it would tell me: 1) You are not truly interested in the position, 2) You haven’t fully read the job description, 3) You haven’t researched the company, 4) You are sending a message you wish to conclude the interview immediately. 5) You are not qualified
Be Prepared
What information do you need to decide whether to work at this company? Make a list of at least 10 questions to take with you to the interview. The type of question you will be asking will be based on the scope of the position, the company, geographical location, relocation, travel requirements, budget, industry challenges, etc… so, your specific question will vary as well as depending on who is interviewing you, how you word your question.
- If you are interviewing with the hiring manager, ask questions about the job, the desired qualities and the challenges.
- If you are interviewing with the human resources manager, ask about the company and the department.
- If you are interviewing with management, ask about the industry and future projections. This is your chance to demonstrate your industry knowledge.
Top 10 Questions To Ask At Your Next Job Interview
1. What exactly does this company value the most, and how do you think my work for you will further these values?
2. What kinds of processes are in place to help me work collaboratively?
3. In what area could your team use a little polishing?
4. What’s the most important thing I can accomplish in the first 60 days?
5. Can you give me some examples of the most and least desirable aspects of the company’s culture?
6. Am I going to be a mentor or will I be mentored?
7. How will you judge my success? What will have happened six months from now that will demonstrate that I have met your expectations?
8. This job sounds like something I’d really like to do — is there a fit here?
9. Now that we’ve talked about my qualifications and the job, do you have any concerns about my being successful in this position?
10. Tell me how this opportunity became available?
When you begin to think of the interview as a two-way process, you will see it is important for you to find out as much as possible about the company. Questions will give you the opportunity to find out if this is a good place for you to work before you say yes.
Go Deeper!
Finally, a candidate asking real questions!
Over my years of interviewing candidates, I often felt they did not ask enough questions or asked the right questions that exposed my company’s weaknesses.
But, some did. And it single-handedly placed them on my short list of candidates. They pressed me of my understanding of company policy, company goals, systems, processes, communication, culture.
It was phenomenal. Why? Because it was evident they had the critical thinking in “reading between the lines” of my questions, responses, and job description. It showed they were careful, cautious, and would look deeper beyond the surface in making an educated decision regarding their career path.
Be that person.
I hope you found this list helpful. Was there anything glaringly omitted in your opinion? What would you include as a good question to ask your potential next employer?
