Asking the Right Questions in an Interview

Fear not with these top tips.

Interviews are awkward. You’re trying to prove you’re both a fun person to work with and that you have the best skills for the job. You’ve finished explaining your resume and answering their questions, and then they ask if you have any questions in return. They want to know you’re interested in the job and did your research, so saying you don’t have anything further to ask isn’t a great idea.

We previously detailed five of the top questions to ask, and now we’re back with four more!

A question asking about your future team members.

For example: Can you tell me about the other team members I’ll be working closely with?

This question shows you’re interested in the job for more than a paycheck. Your interviewer is looking for someone who is in it for the long haul, and showing you care about the folks you’ll spend every day with is a good call. It’s also beneficial, since you’ll already have an idea of the type of people you’re working with before your first day on the job.

A question about company leadership.

For example: I read online that CEO [insert their name] is looking to move in [a certain direction]. Do you have any details about their vision for this year?

This question serves two purposes. One, that you did your research. And two, that you aren’t just concerned with your own position and team. You want to know where the company is headed, and that starts with learning about the CEO.

A question about inter-departmental communication.

For example: What other departments and individuals would I be working with on a typical day?

Knowing your day-to-day responsibilities is important, but so is knowing what type of people you’ll be working with who aren’t on your team. When you ask this one, your interviewer will know you’re interested in where you fit into the company as a whole, not just your individual team.

A question about the future of the company.

For example: What will this company be doing in the next five years?

Interviewers love to ask what applicants will be up to five years from now, so it’s fair game to turn the tables and ask them the same thing! You’ll show you’re a big picture kind of employee, and also learn more about the company. Remember, you’re making sure the company is a good fit just as much as they’re making sure you’re the right person for the job. If your interviewer has issues answering the question, it might be something to consider when weighing the pros and cons of accepting the job.

Any other questions you like to ask in interviews? Let us know in the comments section below!

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