Going into a job interview can be a scary thing, but we all do it. You may be someone who is nervous or you may be very confident and ready for whatever questions are thrown your way.
No matter what kind of person you are during an interview, always have questions ready. When the company hiring you asks, “Do you have any questions for me/us?” do not say no. Even if they have already answered everything that you were curious about, ask them something else. It makes it look like you are interested in the position.
So, instead flip it around on the interviewer and ask them questions. And if you get nervous or think you’re going to forget, write them down! It’ll show you came prepared. Here are the top 5 questions to ask during an interview.
Is there anything that concerns you about my background being a fit for this role?
This question may take interviewers by surprise and might impress them. You don’t have to word this specifically word for word, but it could be along the lines of is there anything about me that would hold you back from hiring me? This is a great question to ask because then you know what you have to work on if you get the job and if you don’t and you are going to have more interviews. This will allow the interviewer to be honest with you, hopefully. If you frame a unique question, you might stand out amongst the other candidates.
What’s your favorite part about working here?
This question flips it around on them, so not all of the pressure is put on you at the moment. Plus, then you can see if you might like the job and any red flags or questions you might have from their answer. Of course, they are going to be professional and not talk bad about the company they currently work for, but you might be able to tell from their body language and voice if they are being genuine and a place you want to work for or not.
Where do you see this company in the next 5 years?
You are most likely going to get asked the question ‘Where do you see yourself in 5 years?’ at some point in the interview. If you really want the job, you better answer with ‘At this company.’ So why not spin it around on them and ask, ‘Where do you see the company in 5 years?’ especially if it is a newer company. You want to get an idea of what your role might look like in the future and how the company will progress.
How long did the previous person in the role hold the position?
This is a great question to ask because you want to know did the person retire from the role? Did they leave because they didn’t like it? Is it a new position? Did they leave because they got something better? They might not want to tell you that, but some employers might be honest with you about it. It’s better to know what you’re getting yourself into then to get a job and then hate it and you had warning signs beforehand.
Can I answer any final questions for you?
There might be something on your resume that they have a question about or something they thought of while you were talking and asking if they have any more questions is a great question. Again, it shows your interest and opens up the discussion more and may give you a chance to talk yourself up more and have a better chance at getting the job.
Remember, no matter what you ask, ask something!