Getting invited to a job interview is relieving and exciting. It means you’re one step closer to nabbing the job you want. It’s always in your best interest to prepare for it. But most people often focus on making sure they look good on their end. This means having several clean copies of their resume or portfolio. It also entails having a sensible outfit to wear and being on time. It also makes sense to practice how to answer typical interview questions.
Despite all these preparations, applicants often fumble when asked a very important question. Every interviewer will ask the applicant “Do you have any questions for me?” Your answer can affect your chances of getting hired.
It’s a major faux pas if you tell the interviewer “No, you’ve covered everything.” You also missed one last chance to make a good impression. Why? Saying you don’t have any questions shows a lack of interest or engagement on your part. Many recruiting firms also look at these applicants as not being very bright.
An interview is a two-way discussion. Asking questions at the end, or even during, the interview is one way to clarify details about the post. The trick is knowing good questions to ask the interviewer. You want questions that are proactive and thoughtful. Here are some questions that will make you stand out.
How Did the Role Become Available?
This question will give you an idea of how the company works. It can even tell you any recent changes that happened without being nosy about it. For instance, the position might have become available because the team is expanding. It also gives the interviewer a chance to further explain the company structure.
What’s a Typical Day Like for This Position?
This question will tell you a lot about the post you’re applying for. The answers will give you an insight into the responsibilities you’ll be taking on. It will also tell you if you have the skills and experience to do the job. Knowing what a typical day entails can help you determine if this is the job for you.
Can You Tell Me More About the Team I’ll be Working With?
You can learn more about the company structure and environment with this question. You’ll learn which department you might be working in and who you’ll report to. It’s also sensible to know more about the dynamics of the team you could be joining.
This question can also open up another chance for you to talk more about yourself. You can share your own success or experience working with a similar team. It gives your prospective employer another example of how well you’ll do in the organization.
How Would You Describe the Company Culture?
This question can help you assess the company’s work environment. The interviewer’s answer will give you an idea about the organization. It can tell you if they make employee satisfaction a priority. You’ll also learn more about any benefits the company provides. You’ll also have an inkling of what work-life balance you can expect.
This question cropped up more often in interviews. It’s because there’s more emphasis on the type of culture a company cultivates. It helps employees determine if they can thrive in such an environment or not.
Can You Give Me More Information on X?
It’s a good idea to ask for clarification on something the interviewer mentioned earlier. Let’s say they mentioned a training that you’re interested in or already attended. Asking more questions about it shows that you’re engaged and listening. It will also help you learn more about a specific aspect of the company.
Questions to Avoid
There are also questions you should never broach during the interview. Questions about the salary is one example. You should do your research and know what the going rate is for the position. But never bring the topic up. Let the company take the lead on this.
You should also refrain from asking about benefits and promotions. Your focus should be on showing how you can meet the needs of the staffing firm. It’s better to ask about training programs instead of promotions.
Connecting the Right People
Finding the right people for the job is easy with Seattle Financial. We’re a specialized accounting and financial staffing agency. We service the California, Colorado, and Washington areas. We help fill jobs in accounting, HR, and manufacturing. We also help look for admin, sales, and marketing experts. We offer direct hire, contract, and contract-to-hire positions. You can call us at 206-343-8732 or email us at recruiting@seattlefinancial.com.
