Going in for an interview can be nerve-wracking, especially if this is a job that you feel will potentially make or break your career. With that being said, it pays to enter into any kind of application process with a certain amount of confidence, knowing not only what you want from the job but why you want this job specifically.
To do that, you have to ask questions – a lot of questions. Don’t be afraid to get specific with your queries; it shows you’ve done your research and came to the interview prepared. Below is a list of some of the best questions you can ask when the time comes.
1. “What are Some of the Unique Challenges that This Job Presents?”
Not every job is created equal, even if you’re making a lateral move within the same industry, so ask what makes this role different from others. The interviewer will most likely respond with something about the budget or future colleagues, which gives you an excellent opportunity to trumpet your own solutions to past problems that are similar. Though some applicants may get compelling resumes from LiveCareer, there’s no replacement for being able to address real-life concerns in the flesh.
2. “How Do You Define Success?”
There are two different job descriptions: the one that is pasted onto a job board by the human resources department and the one that the hiring manager sees more applicable in everyday life. The second one is the one that you need to really get at, so ask the person you’re interviewing with what they view as a job well done. There may be several listed on the applicant sheet, but only a few of which really matter at the end of the day, and getting to the bottom of them now will allow you to better position yourself for success tomorrow.
3. “Why Have You Stayed for So Long?”
Make sure this question isn’t pointed, but if you see an opening to ask the interviewer about their time at the company, ask a question that will both cause them to reflect and dive deeper into the goings on of the company. By asking them why they’ve been there for so long, you’ll get an in-depth look into the benefits or unique opportunities that are afforded you there and nowhere else. That’s vital information during your job search.
4. “What is the Vision of this Company?”
If you’re interviewing with multiple people inside of a business, this question is absolute gold. Though each person may have their own unique version of a company vision, what you’re really looking for is a common thread that runs deep at their core. If you ask this question in four different interviews and get four completely different answers, it’s best to ask yourself if this is really a business where you see a future at. If they aren’t aligned in their focus, what makes you think you’ll be able to click very well?
It’s inevitable: At some point during the interview, the hiring manager will ask you if you have any questions for them about the company or the position itself. Instead of saying no and skipping out of the room, look at it as a crucial opportunity to turn the tables on the company and interview them to see if it’s a right fit for you. With a little bit of investigative work on your part, you could be saving yourself potentially years of heartache.
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