This article was originally posted on NextAvenue.org and was picked up by Inc. Magazine's online edition.
Many people focus so hard on answering interview questions well that they forget something very important; You are there to ask questions as well.
Asking the right questions at an interview is important for two reasons. First, when done correctly, the questions you ask confirm your qualifications as a candidate for the position.
Second, you are interviewing the company just as much as the company is interviewing you. This is your opportunity to find out if this is an organization where you want to work.
When you ask the right questions, you want to achieve a few things:
- Make sure the interviewer has no reservations about you.
- Demonstrate your interest in the company.
- Find out if you feel the company is the right fit for you.
There are an infinite number of questions you could ask, but if you stay focused on these three goals, the questions should come easy to you.
I recommend preparing 3 to 5 questions for each interview and ask 3 of them. I like to have more prepared than is needed because sometimes some of my questions are answered in the course of the interview.
Some of the interview questions YOU should be asking, and why, include:
1. What skills and experiences would make an ideal candidate? This is a great open-ended question that will have the interviewer put his or her cards on the table and have them state exactly what they’re looking for. If he or she mentions something you haven’t covered yet, now is your chance!
2. What is the single largest problem facing your staff, and would I be in a position to help you solve this problem? This question not only shows that you are immediately thinking about how you can help the team, but it also encourages the interviewer to envision you already working at the position.
3. What have you enjoyed most about working here? This question allows the interviewer to connect with you on a more personal level, sharing his or her personal thoughts and feelings. The answer will also give you a unique insight into where job satisfaction comes from in this environment. If the interviewer is pained to come up with an answer, it’s a big red flag.
4. What constitutes success at this position and this company? Again, this question shows your interest in being successful at the company. The answer will show you directly how to get ahead in this company, and whether it is a good fit for you.
5. Do you have any hesitations about my qualifications? I love this question because it’s a gutsy question to ask. It shows you are confident in your skills and abilities, and it ultimately makes the interviewer admit that you’re a great candidate.
6. Does the company offer continued education and professional training? While on the surface this question may seem self-serving, it’s actually a great positioning question, showing that you are interested in expanding your knowledge and ultimately helping and growing with them company.
7. Can you tell me about the team I’ll be working with? Notice how the question is phrased; it assumes you will get the job. This question also tells you about the people you will interact with on a daily basis, so listen to the answer closely.
8. What can you tell me about your new products or plans for growth? This question should be customized for your particular needs. Do your homework on the company’s web site before hand and mention a new product or service the company is launching. This will show that you’ve done your homework and you’re interested in the company. The answer will give you a good idea of where the company is headed.
9. Who previously held this position? A straightforward question, which will tell you if the person before you was promoted, quit, fired, or retired. This should tell you quite a bit about the position.
10. What is the next step in the process? This is the essential last question. It shows that you’re interested in moving along in the process and invites the interviewer to tell you how many people are in the running for the position.
Your success at an interview will be judged not only by the answers you give to their questions, but also to the questions you ask. Be prepared with thought-provoking questions.
Joe Konop
Principal
One Great Resume