“Do you have any questions?”
This question consistently comes up at the end of every interview. But why? Generally, it serves two opposing purposes. On the one hand, it’s a time for the recruiter to find out if you’re interested in the company and if you’re motivated to work for them. On the other hand, it is a time for you to learn as much as possible about the company and make an informed choice. The goal is not just to find a job. It’s about finding a company where you feel good, where you’re well paid and where you thrive. So don’t be afraid to ask your questions.
What questions should you ask when it’s your turn to interview the recruiter? First of all, there are certain topics you should avoid unless the recruiter opens the door for you, such as salary, benefits, and any questions that are too focused on the benefits you might get from the company. You don’t want the recruiter to think you’re only interested in the money. Of course, it’s important to address these aspects, but it’s best to do so in the second interview.
Now that you know what not to ask, at least not right away, here are the top 33 questions to ask at the end of an interview. Keep in mind that it is recommended that you only ask 3-5 of these questions. If you want to have more impact, personalize your topics. Use the information you learned during the interview to tailor your questions. This way, not only will you sound more genuine and interested in the position, but you won’t sound like a robot who has memorized their questions.
Questions about your future position
1. What are the main responsibilities of this position?
2. What are the opportunities for growth in this position?
3. What are the greatest challenges of this position?
4. What is the most important quality for this position?
5. What are your expectations of me in this role?
6. What is the most important thing I need to accomplish in the first 90 days?
7. What are some mistakes people have made in this position?
8. What is a typical day like in this position?
9. How would you describe the ideal employee?
10. Is this a new position?
11. What has made previous employees successful in this position?
Questions about the company
1. What are the company’s current objectives?
2. What are the company’s values?
3. What is the company’s management style?
4. How has the company evolved in recent years?
5. How is success measured in this company?
6. What does your onboarding process look like?
7. What aspect of working here is least appreciated?
8. How fast is the company growing?
9. How would you describe the culture of the company?
Questions about the team
1. What aspects do employees like most about working here?
2. How many people work in this office/department?
3. Can you tell me more about the team I will be working with?
4. Who will I be working with most closely?
5. Who will be my primary supervisor?
6. What skills are missing from your current team that you want to obtain through a new hire?
7. Do you plan to hire more people in this department in the next year?
Questions to ask about the recruiter
1. What are you most passionate about in the future of the company?
2. What is your favorite thing about working here?
3. How long have you been with the company?
4. How is working here different from what you have experienced elsewhere?
Questions to ask about what happens next
1. Is there anything I can clarify for you about my qualifications?
2. What are the next steps in the hiring process?
Remember, a job interview is nothing more than a conversation between two people. The recruiter is there to determine if you are the right candidate for their open position and you are there to determine if you want to work for their company. To help you make your choice, we suggest that you write down a few key questions to ask the recruiter in your cell phone. Then read them again before you go to your interview.
You must respect the time allotted for your interview. If you find that you only have a few minutes left, focus only on the questions that you feel are most important to ask. You will always have more time to ask other questions during the second interview and your hiring.
On your marks, get set, ask your questions!