An interview is a two-way street. It’s your chance to establish whether joining a particular company will benefit your career and ultimately, whether there is a suitable fit between the two.
For that reason it's important that you ask your interviewer questions to gauge what the role will entail and whether it is the right fit for you. Below are a selection of questions we would suggest asking at your next interview.
“All candidates should be able to show employers that they have thought about the role beyond what may be have been covered over the course of the interview. This is your chance to stand out from other candidates and leave the interviewer with a memorable impression of you.” Benny Tan, Associate Director - Northern Region of Robert Walters Penang.
1. Why has this position become available?
Why ask it: It’s important for you to know why this position is open - is it because someone left the role or is it newly created? If so, why was it created? This will inform you about the management and growth expectations of the company.
2. What do you like about working for this company?
Why ask it: Gaining an insight into someone that is already part of the company will help you to find out more about whether the cultural fit is what you are looking for. You would also have a better gauge of the team that you’re working with and dynamics within the company.
3. What are the benchmarks for judging my suitability for the role?
Why ask it: This is useful to know as each business operates differently. It will show what type of approach the company takes with its employees and is useful for you to think about whether the approach suits you personally.
Asking the interviewer questions about the role shows that you are engaged and interested in the company and demonstrates your ability to show initiative.
4. What can I expect in terms of development and support?
Why ask it: This question will show that you are keen on growing, learning and staying with the company. It will also allow you to find out more whether the role offers what you are looking for in the long-term.
5. Where does the job fit into the team structure?
Why ask it: Not only does this provide you with the chance to see how you can progress within the team, it also provides you with an opportunity to understand the team you will be a part of and who will be your major stakeholders.
6. What is the next step after the interview?
Why ask it: Although it can be easily forgotten, this question is vital to ask. It shows the interviewer that you have thought about the next stages and provides you with an indication on whether you need to prepare more.
The interview is not just about seeing whether you are the right fit for the organisation, but it’s also about making sure you feel confident about your ability to do the job and in turn, making sure you feel like the role would be a successful career move.
However, there are also some questions you should avoid asking as it could paint a bad light on you as an employee.
