An interview is not a one-way street, it is a conversation between the interviewer and interviewee. Interviewers not only expect answers to their questions, they also expect questions from you. They want to get the impression that you have a genuine interest in the role you are interviewing for.
Here are a list of 10 questions to ask at the end of an interview.
1. What is the culture like?
This question gives you an overview of the company philosophy and whether it aligns with you.
2. What do you like about working for this company?
This question is important because it lets you create a sense of camaraderie with the interviewer and it gives the interviewer a chance to talk about their favourite parts about working for the company.
3. What are the most important qualities for this role?
This question can often lead to valuable information that’s not included in the job description. It can also help you learn about the company culture and expectations, so you can show that you are a good fit for the job.
4. What does a typical day look like?
This shows that you are eager about the position and gives you a better idea about what the job will involve on a daily basis, so you can decide whether you want to pursue it.
5. Where is the company headed in the next 5 years?
If you are talking to the leader of a company, this is a great question to ask them. Robert Hohman, the CEO of Glassdoor, stated that businesses should be able to articulate this information clearly and it should be inspiring.
6. Why has the position become available?
This might be uncomfortable to ask, but Harrison, CEO of Snagajob, states that this is not an uncommon question to ask. It is good to know why this position has become available, for example due to growth, internal promotion or someone leaving the company.
7. Where would the new hire fit into the team structure?
This shows your eagerness to find out where you would fit in if successful and how your contribution would impact the rest of the company.
8. What makes people stay in the company?
April Boykin-Huchko, HR manager at the marketing firm Affect, said that it's always a good idea to get a broader sense of a company's culture.
9. How does the company help their employees grow professionally?
This question shows that you're willing to work hard to ensure that you grow along with the company.
10. When will I hear back from you, and what are the next steps?
This question shows that you are eager to move forward with the process. It will also help you gain important information about the timeline for hiring so that you can follow up appropriately.
Asking questions will not only provide you with useful information but will also help differentiate you from the other candidates.