8 Key Questions YOU Should Ask in a Job Interview

From Monologue to Dialogue

Job interviews can be intimidating. No matter how much you’ve prepared for this moment, it can still feel nerve-wracking having to prove yourself to the interviewer about why you are the most suitable candidate for the position you’ve applied for.

In most cases, candidates are too occupied with (or very overwhelmed by) answering the probing questions that the interviewer puts forward to them, that candidates forget that they can ask about the company and the role!

Why Should You Ask Questions?

By asking the interviewer questions of your own, you are demonstrating a sense of enthusiasm, engagement and interest. Essentially, this shows the interviewer that not only are you serious about securing the job, but also sincerely interested in understanding the company’s culture and values, as well the expectations for the role.

In other words, don’t forget that a job interview is a two-way street: both you and the interviewer are assessing whether it’s the right fit for you. If the interviewer’s responses are satisfactory, then you will be able to determine if the company aligns with your career goals and values.

Keep in mind to steer clear of questions that can be readily answered through online research.

Ask Away!

There are many questions you could ask, but these eight questions are the most important:

1. What Are Your Expectations For Me in This Role?

While the job application may describe the primary responsibilities that the position entails, you should use the interview as an opportunity to seek more clarity on the specific expectations that the company has for you in this role. By understanding their expectations, you can then assess if your skills and work style align with the company’s needs.

2. What Specific Qualities/Skills Are You Looking For in The Candidate?

Here, you can ascertain what key qualities and skills that the company values in its employees. For example, if you’re applying for the position of an IT support technician, the company may prioritise technical skills, communication, problem-solving and strong attention to detail. By learning about what the company values, you can tailor your responses and demonstrate how your experience in IT aligns with their needs.

3. Can You Tell Me More About The Team?

Chances are you’ll be working in a specific team or department. Therefore, you need to gain insights into their dynamics. Ask the interviewer about the team’s specifics, such as how many members there are, how they collaborate on projects, their approaches to working, its diversity, etc. It’s a good way to see if your working style and personality could potentially fit within the team environment.

4. Does The Company Offer Continued Education/Professional Training?

In pursuit of your dream job, you want to stave off stagnation and continue to grow in a professional capacity. For example, as a graphic designer whose expertise lies in creating adverts and magazine layouts, you might want to also learn about video-editing or copywriting in the near future, which could potentially lead to career advancement!

Ask the interviewer about any opportunities for continued education and training that the company offers, which could range from workshops to online courses. If the company does offer any of these opportunities, this shows that they are genuinely invested in their workforce’s professional growth.

5. What Are The Common Career Paths in This Department?

That being said, it’s important to know what other avenues could open up to you within the company after undertaking training, upskilling, etc. Whether it be transitioning to a different department, taking on a specialist role, or being allowed to find freelance/temporary work in other organisations, it’s good to ask the interviewer if the company offers opportunities for career advancement and flexibility.

6. Can You Describe the Company Culture?

No matter where you work, you want to be happy. Whether it be finding joy in the assignments you’re given or building long-lasting, meaningful relationships with your colleagues, company culture can greatly impact one’s job satisfaction and overall performance.

By asking about the company culture, you can gain insights into their values, work environment and leadership, and whether they foster a collaborative, inclusive or competitive atmosphere. This information is crucial in determining whether you’ll thrive (or not) in their environment.

7. Why Do You Like Working Here?

Alternatively, you can rephrase this question as “Do you enjoy your work?” Otherwise, the gist is the same – you want to hear directly from the interviewer about their personal experience within (and perspective of) the company. Their answers can determine whether the company is the right fit for you.

Watch out for wording, tone and attitude: if the interviewer speaks enthusiastically about their experiences and highlights positive aspects of the workplace, then that indicates a healthy company culture. However, if they give you vague, hesitant answers that lean towards the negative, it may raise red flags about possible issues within the company culture or leadership.

8. Is There Anything Else I Can Provide You With?

Asking this question at the end of the interview demonstrates your willingness to engage further and your proactive attitude. It signals to the interviewer that you are enthusiastic about the job, and are open to addressing any concerns or questions they may have. Ultimately, you want to make a strong final impression before the interview ends.

Engage + Impress = Success!

Remember, a job interview isn’t just about impressing the interviewer – it’s a two-way dialogue, one that gives both parties an opportunity to see if it’s a mutual fit. By asking these questions with a sense of confidence and enthusiasm, you could find yourself landing the job that not only matches your skills, but also aligns with your career aspirations and values.

Good luck!