It is common for hiring managers to ask "Do you have any questions?" during the interview. They are looking to see how interested you are in the job. Your answer can also showcase if your career goals line up with the requirements of the position. Using the correct question combination can help you decide if the position is one that you are truly interested in. It can also help you understand how this job can impact the trajectory of your career and future goals.
Try to jot down a minimum of 5 questions to ask. Some of them may be answered during the interview. Here is a list of 9 questions to help get you started.
1) What will the First Month look like?
The challenges in the next 30 days can highlight what the company is hoping to overcome and their main priorities. If you are the chosen candidate, you will understand where your focus needs to be. This can give you time to brainstorm tactics and strategies before your start date and allow you to join the team with some vision and ideas.
2) What does the Ideal Candidate for this position look like?
This is a fast and simple way to figure out if you are a successful candidate for this job. When the hiring manager states the traits they are looking for, you can begin making a mental checklist. Determine if you fit the qualifications. If you don't meet them, are these skills the company seeks ones you would like to pursue?
If you find out during your interview for a marketing position that the employer desires a strong analytics background, is this an area you would like to enhance? If you were hoping to expand your branding skills instead, you will need to evaluate where you would like your focus to be in your next job.
3) What is the company’s Culture like?
Inquire about the company culture if you are looking to find out more about the business's work environment, vision and values. This is a vital question since the culture can affect how employees are expected to conduct themselves and even how your office is set up.
You want to ensure the company vibe meets your needs before saying yes to the job. After all, if your values and needs don't measure up, it is likely that your productivity and overall happiness will suffer. Find a business with a culture you respect and admire to maximize your goals and peace of mind.
4) How do you Measure Success?
Understanding the metrics of success early on can help you understand what the priorities of the business are and how your performance will be judged if you start working there. This helps you decide if the goals seem realistic and if you will be able to sustainably meet the demands of the job.
5) How has this Job evolved over time?
This is a great question to find out about how your career could potentially grow. Has the business prioritized the department or the position? Are there any chances to advance in this job or does the path seem like a dead-end? If you are hoping to break into a new industry or change careers, could this job be a potential steppingstone?
If you are hoping to ascend the ladder within a company, do you need to reconsider this option, or is this the perfect opportunity? Be honest about your goals and what you hope to achieve.
6) What are your favorite aspects of working here?
This is an ideal question to help you gain a better understanding of the culture of a company. The employee's response may give you a better idea about how the team comes together or how the work environment flows. You will get an inside answer about what it is like to be a part of this business, and this can help you determine if it is a good fit.
7) How is the Team Organized? Who would I be working under?
It is a great idea to speak directly to who you will be closely working with before giving a definitive yes to the job offer. This gives you the chance to learn more about their background and leadership abilities. It helps you understand if your skills will complement theirs and vice versa.
Once you learn about the structure and organization of the team, you will get a greater idea of how much support will be provided in this job. It will also highlight the growth potential for this position.
8) Are there any hesitations regarding my Qualifications?
It can be difficult to bring up any potential or perceived weaknesses. However, giving yourself a chance to address any questions or concerns the hiring manager may have before they make their decision can give you the chance to highlight any skills or traits you forgot to discuss in the interview. The question depicts your confidence, that you have the ability to acknowledge any weaknesses while still advocating for the job.
9) Is the company facing any Challenges?
Asking the bold query to see if the company is dealing with any current challenges may seem like an awkward conversation. However, mentioning it shows the hiring manager that you are eager to learn more about how you can help solve problems and provide an immediate and positive impact. It additionally provides insight into the growth opportunity for this job.
