As an applicant, asking the right questions during job interviews is crucial for several reasons.
Firstly, the questions you ask can reflect positively on your motivation for applying and demonstrate your knowledge and skills to the interviewer, increasing your chances of landing the job.
Moreover, a job interview is a two-way conversation, with both parties asking and answering questions.
It is necessary to evaluate the job’s compatibility with your requirements, just as the organization is assessing your competencies for the role. Therefore, the answers to your questions can provide valuable information about the job and its benefits.
This article: provides tips on how to prepare questions that can demonstrate your interest, research skills, and suitability for the position.
It also includes a list of 12 brilliant questions to ask during an interview to help you make a positive impression and increase your chances of landing the job.
Reasons to Ask Good Questions
1. A Two-Way Street
An interview is a two-way street where the candidate and interviewer both have important roles to play.
While many candidates focus on answering questions, they may not realize that they also have the opportunity to ask questions themselves.
Therefore, it is crucial for candidates to prepare their own questions before going into an interview.
2. Demonstrating Interest
Preparing a list of questions shows the interviewer that you are interested in the position and the company.
Not having any questions prepared could signal that you are not invested in the opportunity, unprepared, or lack independent thinking skills.
3. Types of Questions Determine Your Match
The questions you ask can give the interviewer insight into your level of preparation and research.
Asking about the company’s history or culture, for example, can demonstrate your interest in their values and mission. Conversely, asking about salary during the initial interview can send the wrong message.
The type of questions you ask can also determine how well you match the company and the position.
4. Quantity and Quality
There is no magic formula for the number of questions to ask, prioritizing your list of questions from most important to least can help ensure you get the information you need.
You should also consider the amount of time allotted for the interview.
On average, candidates should expect to have enough time to ask about five questions.
When selecting questions to ask during an interview, consider the interview’s flow and your prior knowledge of the job description.
5. Be Relevant to the Process
The type of questions you ask may differ depending on the stage of the interview process.
For example, during the first interview, it is important to ask relevant questions about the position and company.
During a second interview, you may ask more probing questions about the team or work culture.
6. Homework Done
Researching the company beforehand can give you an advantage in asking informed questions. Demonstrating that you have done your homework can show the interviewer that you are serious about the position. Asking specific questions about the company’s recent events or accomplishments can show that you are up-to-date with their latest developments.
Tips for Questions to Consider
A.) Be Flexible – Some questions may be answered during the interview, so it is important to have a flexible list of questions. If a question is already answered, you can move on to the next question on your list.
B.) Avoid Common Questions – Asking questions that can be easily found on the company website or in other literature can show that you did not prepare for the interview. Instead, ask intuitive questions that can establish a dialogue and demonstrate your interest in the position.
C.) Avoid Asking About Salaries and Benefits – The interviewer should be the one to address these topics. Open-ended questions that allow for a deeper conversation, such as behavioral questions, can be more effective in showing your skills and experience.
Brilliant Questions you should ask the employer
The following are some questions to consider asking during your interview:
1. What are the challenges for this position?
2. What are the main skills necessary for this position?
3. What are the personal strengths/traits required for making the difference in this position?
4. What are the department/organization’s goals?
5. How do you describe the learning curve for this position?
6. Where is the department located within company organizational structure?
7. What particular software and hardware tools do I use?
8. What major responsibilities can I expect for this job? May I review the job description?
9. What are the opportunities to get promoted over the years? Is there a career progression program/policy?
10. To whom would I report? Who will review my performance and how often?
11. How much support is made available to individuals for professional development such as – professional courses, seminars and trainings?
12. When can I expect to be notified for the next interviewing process?
Conclusion: Preparing Questions for a Successful Interview
Preparing your own list of questions before an interview can demonstrate your interest, research skills, and suitability for the position.
By asking relevant, intuitive questions and avoiding common pitfalls, candidates can make a positive impression and increase their chances of landing the job.
By preparing a set of intelligent, thought-provoking questions in advance, you can help demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job and your interest in the company. This can help establish a positive relationship with the interviewer and ultimately increase your chances of securing the job.