The next time you’re on a job interview, think about what you would want to see from the person you were interviewing. You’d probably think it was strange if they didn’t ask you any questions, and you wouldn’t be wrong. If you’re trying to make a good impression on your job interview, you should be asking questions of the hiring manager. By asking questions, you’re engaging with your potential future team and showing your interest in the job and the work the company does. Many different questions are all appropriate to ask in an interview, and we’ve narrowed it down to a few.
Can you talk to me about why you’re trying to fill this role?
It’s important to convey that you fully understand the job responsibilities listed in the description, but asking this will help you to understand the details around it and how the skills contribute to the job.
What are the most significant challenges your team has faced?
It is entirely fair for you to know what barriers make the work harder, whether it’s something internal on the team or something that involves a client. This could also be a chance for you to showcase your previous experience if you’ve come up against something similar in your career. Asking this question will show the hiring manager that you’re trying to have realistic expectations of the job, but that you also have ideas in how to contribute to problem-solving on the job.
How will you evaluate my performance?
Though this question may be more appropriate to a later-stage interview, asking this question in advance will allow you to know what to work towards, and how your boss will measure your performance.
Are there specific milestones I would be expected to hit within my first year?
There are often responsibilities that come up outside of what is listed on the initial job description. Whether you are expected to overhaul internal team practices, creating a new project or taking on your initiative, asking this will help you understand what is expected of you and shows the hiring manager that you are already thinking of what it takes to succeed in the job.
What is the company’s work culture like?
Ask this question, and listen carefully: you could hear clues in the hiring manager’s response that indicate the job may not be the right fit for your work style. Know in advance about telecommuting capabilities, vacations, benefits, workplace events, and even expectations when it comes to working hours, and you’ll have a good idea of what it would be like to be a member of the team.
What is the potential for growth at this company?
Asking this question will convey to the employers that you’re serious about the idea of longevity at the company and doing what it takes to succeed. If the hiring manager eventually offers you the job, you can use growth potential as a way of evaluating whether or not you will accept the job.
Most importantly, don’t stay silent during your interview. Your interview should be a two-way conversation in which you learn just as much about the hiring manager and the company as they learn about you. However, you’ll want to think more about striking the perfect balance between staying active and not talking too much. Stick to the major points in your answers and be sure not to meander conversationally too much. Set yourself apart as a competitive, unique hire by asking the above questions, and you’ll start to see an increase in your job offers.