Having a list of questions to ask a job interview makes you look interested, enthusiastic and engaged; all the qualities that an employer will be looking for. Not having any questions to ask will give the possible impression of a lack of interest in the role.
Our advice? Try to come up with at least four questions. By being prepared, if one or two of them are answered during the interview, you have more questions in place. Save questions about salary, holiday allowance and working hours for when you have been offered the job. Also, while it is okay to ask your interviewer to clarify certain points, avoid asking about anything that has previously been covered; you do not want them to think that you haven’t been paying attention.
Here are some good questions you can ask at your next job interview:
Can you tell me more about the day-to-day responsibilities of the role?
Asking this question enables you to learn as much about the role as possible. The interviewer’s response will provide insight into what specific skills and experience are needed and it will also help you decide if the role is right for you. The answer should give you an idea of what the employer’s expectations are, so if you’re offered the job, you will be fully prepared.
How could I impress you in the first few months?
This is a good question to ask at the end of a job interview, as it shows potential employers that you are keen to make a positive contribution to the organisation. Pay close attention to the recruiter’s response, as it will tell you how they want you to perform and will highlight particular areas of the job you should be focusing on during the first few weeks of employment.
Are there opportunities to progress within the company?
Asking about development opportunities demonstrates to the interviewer that you are serious about your career and committed to a future with the organisation. Asking this question will help you to assess whether a long-term career with the company is a possibility.
Where do you see the company in the next five years?
The response you receive will give you an insight into the company’s progression plans and its place in the market, while giving you a general idea about job security. Asking about the future of the company shows a real interest in the organisation and reiterates your commitment to the job role.
Can you describe the working culture of the organisation?
Asking this question is a great way to assess the working environment of the company and it gives you the opportunity to discover whether you will fit in. Understanding the organisations priorities is essential; whether it be employee happiness, of any benefits on offer and what the work-life balance is like.
What do you enjoy about your job?
This question will allow you to see the passion of your interviewer. It requires a personal response and you could learn a lot from their answer. You will get an insider’s view of the company culture and working environment, discover how your interviewer got their start in the business and how they progressed.
Does the organisation offer regular performance appraisals?
This is a great question! It not only shows your interviewer that you are keen to develop, but also that you take your development seriously and would like to have regular opportunities to discuss your future within the organisation.
