What is the best way to approach that question that is guaranteed to be asked at the end of every interview;
‘Have you any questions that you would like to ask?’
Rule of thumb, always have at least 4-6 pre-planned questions that you can ask – have them written down and take them to the interview with you (I will reveal why later)…
Although I have given a bit of a cheat sheet on what to ask, make sure you personalise the ones you choose so they make sense to the role/company and your experience – the more personalised and targeted you make your questions, the bigger the impact they will have!
Ok, let’s answer the ‘why take them written down’ question I have left hanging…
The scenario; you have done lots of research and have come up with 4 killer questions that you need to know to ensure the role or company are right for you, but then during the interview you are given the answers to these questions and are mentally ticking them off your list until you have nothing to ask!
What do you do?
a) You can say that you had some questions, but these have all been answered
Or,
b) You can say that all the questions you had written down to ask, have all been fully answered, I can show you them right here, thank you so much but I feel that I have everything covered so far
So, a) sounds a bit vague and could just cover up that you didn’t have any questions planned, whereas b) proves that you had done some research, and that they have been answered.
Questions to Ask (and the reasoning behind them)
Can you describe the typical career path for someone in this role?
This question shows your ambition and interest in growth within the company and helps you understand the potential for advancement.
What are the most important qualities you’re looking for in an ideal candidate for this position?
This question allows you to align your skills and attributes with the company’s expectations, and it gives you, insight into their values and priorities.
How does the company support professional development and continuous learning?
This question demonstrates your commitment to personal and professional growth while also giving you an idea of the company’s investment in its employees.
What does success look like in this role, and how is it measured?
Understanding how your performance will be evaluated helps you set clear expectations and goals for yourself if you join the company.
Can you tell me more about the team I’ll be working with and the company culture?
This question helps you assess whether you’ll be a good fit for the team and whether the company’s culture aligns with your values and work style.
What are the short-term and long-term goals for this department or team?
This question demonstrates your interest in contributing to the company’s objectives and shows that you’re thinking beyond just the role itself.
Can you describe the company’s growth trajectory and future?
This question shows your interest in the company’s long-term sustainability and your desire to align your career with its growth.
What are the key challenges or opportunities that the company is currently facing?
This question demonstrates your proactive mindset and your willingness to contribute to solving the company’s challenges or capitalising on opportunities.
Can you provide more details about the typical day-to-day responsibilities in this role?
Understanding the day-to-day expectations will help you gauge whether the role aligns with your skills and interests.
How does the company support work-life balance and employee well-being?
Balancing work and personal life are important, especially in smaller organisations where roles can be multifaceted.
What do you value most in an employee, and what qualities contribute to success in this company?
This question helps you understand the company’s expectations and values, allowing you to tailor your responses to align with their priorities.
Tailor these questions to the specific company and role you’re interviewing for, be prepared to ask follow-up questions based on the interviewer’s responses. Demonstrating your genuine interest in the company and your readiness to contribute to its success is essential when interviewing at any size company/any sector.
If you need support with interviews then we do offer coaching in interview techniques – click for more information…
Any questions, or to see how we can help further then just get in touch; 01603 327 644 or info@pcvw.co.uk
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