Almost every job interview ends with the recruiter asking “Do you have any questions for me?” Job applicants are often caught off guard by this. Some will say “No” while others will try to come up with something. Those two reactions won’t impress the interviewer.
Job interviews are a two-way street. It’s a chance for employers to test potential hires. But it’s also a crucial opportunity for the applicant to assess whether they like the company.
Asking sensible questions provides applicants with valuable intel. This helps them make an informed decision. It also demonstrates their interest in the position. Showing interest can make or break one’s interview chances. One study showed recruiters lose interest in applicants who don’t know about the company.
The challenge is coming up with good questions. This post offers some ideas on what to ask in an interview.
Can You Describe the Company Culture?
It’s important to understand the company’s work culture. This knowledge can determine whether the job applicant can fit in the team dynamics. It also provides insight into the work environment and conditions.
This question also helps job hunters gauge if their values align with the company. One survey revealed that 77% of people consider a company’s culture before applying.
What Are the Key Responsibilities of This Role?
Having a clear understanding of the job is important. This question gives the hiring manager a chance to explain one’s future responsibilities. It also helps the applicant see if the position aligns with their skills and career plans.
There’s another variant to this question. Many job applicants also ask what a typical day might look like for them. The answer will give the prospect some insight into daily workflow tasks.
What Are the Opportunities for Professional Development?
The question shows the applicant’s interest in growing with the company. It also highlights their commitment to continuous learning.
The recruiter’s answer will also reveal the company’s potential for growth. It can tell the applicant if the job is a good platform to launch one’s career or not.
How Do You Measure Success in This Role?
It’s a good idea to ask questions about performance reviews. Applicants should understand how the company measures success. It gives them an idea of how their work will undergo evaluation. The interviewer could even give an overview of key performance indicators.
Regular performance reviews are vital. It encourages employees to keep growing their skills.
What Are the Next Steps in the Hiring Process?
This question shows the applicant is already interested in moving forward. It also helps the prospect understand the hiring timeline. They’ll also learn what to expect after the interview.
Career guidance specialists say some questions are off-limits. Questions about the starting salary or leave policies are unprofessional. These are irrelevant at this stage of the hiring process. There’s plenty of time to discuss salaries and benefits later.
What Can You Tell Me About the Company’s Mission and Values?
The applicant’s values must align with the company. This is vital for long-term job satisfaction. This question helps job applicants understand what the company stands for.
Jobseekers should also ask about what role they’ll play in the company’s continued success. The answer can give the applicant a sense of purpose. It can also inspire them to work harder at securing the job.
To Conclude
Knowing what to ask in an interview helps applicants gather essential information. It also demonstrates their genuine interest in the role and the company. Jobseekers should prepare several questions in advance. They should also be ready to adapt them based on the conversation. Asking questions is crucial as it helps applicants make well-informed decisions.
Helping You Choose the Best Person for the Job
Seattle Financial makes finding the right people for the job easy. Our company is a specialized accounting and financial staffing agency. We’re located in Kirkland, Washington. But we connect talents to businesses in California, Colorado, and the Pacific Northwest. Our expert recruiters help fill jobs in accounting, HR, and marketing.
We recruit for a diverse range of positions. This includes C-Suite and Director-level roles. We offer direct hire, contract, and contract-to-hire positions. Are you ready to build your team? Then give us a call at 206-343-8732. You can also email us at recruiting@seattlefinancial.com.
