Walking into a job interview, pretty much every candidate knows the interviewer will ask them questions. That’s the whole point, right? But it’s just as important for candidates to ask questions too. When you ask questions in a job interview, you show the interviewer that you’re prepared, that you care about the job, and that you are thinking about more than a paycheck. If you’re nervous about what to ask, here’s a few questions you should ask during your next job interview to wow your interviewer.
- What would a typical work day in this position look like?
This question prepares you for the job, of course, by letting you know what you’re in for if you get hired, but it also shows the interviewer that you’re serious about the job and not just in it for a paycheck.
- How do you measure success in this company, and what does success look like in this position specifically?
With this question, you can find out about bonuses and promotions without putting off the interviewer, and it also prepares you for actually working the job.
- Can you provide any employee references?
When you talk with people who’ve worked there before, you can get a good idea of what the company culture is like and whether or not you’re a good fit.
- Do you have professional development opportunities in this position? What are they?
When you ask about a career path or development, you’re showing the interviewer that you’re thinking about the future and imagining yourself in the position long term.
- What kind of qualities would someone need to excel in this position?
Of course you can’t immediately change your personality to fit the job. The answer to this question tells you how you’ll need to approach the job to actually enjoy it as well as succeed.
These are just some questions to help you in your job interview, but it’s a good idea to come up with your own. Ideally you want to prepare before you come into the interview, which gives you time to figure out your questions without the pressure of the interview. You can jot down your questions directly on your resume, on scrap paper, or bring a notepad with you to the interview. When coming up with questions, make sure that they’re open ended (no simple yes or no answers) and that they focus on the company instead of yourself. With prepared questions, you’ll look really professional and impress the interviewer.
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