Job interviews can be stressful, and there is often a tremendous sense of relief when you realise that the interview is coming to an end! But before you leave, the interviewer will almost always ask you whether you have any questions of your own.
And you absolutely should!
Ask questions at the end of the interview
Asking the right questions will demonstrate to the interviewer that you are interested, and that you want to find out more. It’s not enough to simply say, ‘I think you’ve answered all my questions during the interview’.
We encourage all our candidates to have a list of questions prepared. Use the company’s website to identify what you would like to learn about their culture and values. And if you’re coming back from a career break, it’s even more important to be fully prepared.
Our top 10 questions that YOU should ask the interviewer
- “What are the opportunities for growth and career development within this role / the company?” This gives the interviewer the sense that you are thinking long-term, and you’re looking for a career – not just a job.
- “What happens on a typical working day?” Maybe there isn’t actually a typical working day, but the answer to this will help you understand the role a little more.
- “What is your induction and training programme?” Most companies have some idea of this, but most could also do better. A good answer to this question is a very positive sign that they have their employees’ welfare in mind.
- “What project might I be working on first, if you hired me?” This helps clarify what the job might actually be like. The interviewer should have some idea of the answer to this; if they don’t, it could be a warning sign.
- “What’s the structure of the team I’d be joining?” This is good background information, and might also give you an idea of future career development opportunities. Promotion might be less likely in a business with a flat structure.
- “How would you describe the culture of the business?” The answer to this can reveal as much about the interviewer as it does about the company.
- “Why did YOU choose to work for this company?” People like talking about themselves, and the interviewer’s answer might give you good insight into culture, career development opportunities, and the interviewer’s own motivations and personality.
- “When will you decide who is the right person for the job?” This is always useful to know. It helps you plan your timetable, and it leads nicely into the next question:
- “Do you think I could be the right person for the job?” This is quite a bold question, and you might prefer to phrase it slightly differently, but it should give you the opportunity to address any objections that might arise. Not asking this question might mean that the interview ends with the interviewer making assumptions based on lack of information. Unless they have a hidden agenda, of course!
- “May I get in touch with you if I have any other questions?” This gives you the opportunity to send a message of thanks after the interview, and for asking further questions if you have any. It also signals that you are communicative, curious, and interested in the opportunity you’re interviewing for.
Having asked a few of these questions, you’re likely to have a better idea of what the job entails, and whether or not you want it.
And if you do – finish on a positive note, and say so!
