The six best questions to ask in an interview
If you're preparing for a job interview, you may have already researched the most common interview questions and answers.
But, there's one interview question you might not have considered.
"Do you have any questions?" usually comes before the end of the interview. It's not a question you should skip, and the right response could help you land the job.
Why is it important to ask the hiring manager questions? And what types of answers should you be looking for?
Read on because we're about to tell you. Plus, we'll give you a list of six of the best questions to ask any recruiter.
Why is it important to ask questions during a job interview?
When you ask questions during a job interview, it'll show the recruiter that you're a genuine job candidate.
They'll know that you're interested and have the confidence and interpersonal skills to think on the spot.
The hiring manager wants to know that you'll be a good addition to their team. But asking questions doesn't only help the hiring manager.
Right now, there are around ten million job openings in the U.S. You may have a few different opportunities available, so you want to make sure your new job is a good fit.
Asking the employer two or three questions will give you insight into the company. For example, you'll learn about the work environment and find out what their expectations are.
If you do get a job offer, you'll be able to look at the big picture and use this information to make your decision.
When you ask the right questions, it can be beneficial for both you and the company.
What are the best questions to ask?
Before the interview process has begun, make sure you do your research. Read the job description, check the company’s website, and look at its LinkedIn profile.
Knowing about the brand will help you decide what questions you want to ask.
To help you prepare, we've put together a list of the top six questions to ask during a job interview.
1. What would a typical day look like for a new employee?
If you’re not sure what the job responsibilities are, this is a great question to ask.
It shows the employer you’re interested in the day-to-day running of the business. And, they’ll know you’re serious about taking the next step.
You can use their response to help you decide if the position is right for you.
For example, a typical day may include delivering packages to customers. If you don’t feel comfortable driving, you may not want to proceed.
2. Are there opportunities to grow within the company?
If you have chosen a career path, you’ll want to work for a company that supports your goals.
Do they have opportunities for professional development? Do they offer training and leadership pathways?
Most hiring managers are looking to improve retention rates. When you ask this open-ended question, the employer will know you’re interested in a long-term position.
3. What can you tell me about the company’s culture?
When you ask about the company’s culture, you can learn about the work environment. For example, it could be a flexible workplace with options for remote work.
It could also be a fast-paced environment with strict deadlines and sales targets. Or it could be a friendly workplace with an emphasis on teamwork and collaboration.
If you’re considering leaving your current job, think about how the two companies compare. Does the culture suit your work style?
4. What is the biggest challenge a new team member will face?
When you ask about potential challenges, the recruiter will know you have realistic expectations.
And, if you’re considering taking the position, you’ll know what areas to focus on. For example, they may talk about workplace training for a computer program that you’re unfamiliar with.
When you ask this question, you’ll also be able to look for any red flags and learn about their management style.
For example, you should be wary if they mention a difficult co-worker or ex-employee.
5. What are you looking for in a candidate?
If the job description was brief, you might want to learn more about the skills needed for the job.
For example, they may be looking for soft skills such as problem-solving skills, customer service skills, and listening skills.
They may expect you to be a team player, with availability to work on a rotating roster.
Depending on the job, they may expect you to have hard skills. For example, you may need computer skills, cash handling experience, a first-aid certificate, or a license.
And they may need someone with a specific qualification.
Does their must-have list match your skill set?
6. What do you like the most about working here?
If you get the job, you’ll likely be working with the hiring manager. When you ask about their experience with the company, it’ll help build a rapport.
It also shows you’re genuinely interested in the people who work there. Most workplaces are team environments, and the ability to interact and communicate is essential.
The hiring manager may also give you clues as to whether the job is the one for you.
For example, they may praise senior management for looking after their employees. Supportive leadership could be something you appreciate.
Asking about their personal experience at the company is a good way to finish the interview.
Ask the right questions
If you're getting ready for a job interview, we're here to help.
One of the most common questions hiring managers ask is, "Do you have any questions?"
We told you why asking questions is important and gave you a list of six questions you may want to ask.
For example, you can ask about a typical day, growth opportunities, the company's culture, potential challenges, and what the hiring manager is looking for. You can finish strong by asking the hiring manager about their own experience.
Their responses may help you decide whether to take the job if you get an offer.
If you're a job seeker, you can start your job search right here. If you don’t have previous experience, consider applying for entry-level positions, such as a telephone interviewer.
Want more tips to help you score a new position? Check out our resource center.
I am not an HR specialist. Sometimes, interviews can give the candidate insight into what it is like to work at a company. You can gain some insight through the interviews. On the flipside, it is good to review company employees reviews on Glassdoor or Indeed before making a decision to accept a job offer or not.