Mastering Your Next Interview: What Questions Should I Ask At The Interview?

“The master key of knowledge is, indeed, a persistent and frequent questioning.” ~ Peter Abelard

Hiring managers usually ask candidates whether they have questions before concluding the interview. You should always use this opportunity to show that you are invested in the role.

Asking questions during an interview shows the hiring manager that you are engaged and motivated, and it’s an opportunity to showcase your enthusiasm, curiosity and interest in the role. Your questions will also help you to stand out and they will increase your chances of being a memorable candidate.

In a study by the American Staffing Association (ASA), 61% of respondents stated that they would prepare questions ahead of their interviews. This makes it crucial to come prepared with thoughtful questions. Take time before the interview to prepare two or three (or as many as you like) strong questions. This will allow you to obtain additional information about the role, the team, the company, next steps in the process, etc., and it shows the hiring manager that you have done your due diligence.

Your questions should be focused on gaining a better understanding of the opportunity and helping you to determine how interested you truly are in the job.

These questions may focus on:

1. What the team size is, and where the hiring manager sees you fitting in.
2. What approximate mix of activities are associated with the role.
3. How the performance and development of individuals in the team is monitored.
4. What opportunities there are for growth and development.
5. Why the vacancy exists. Was it due to growth, or has somebody left? Why did they leave?
6. How the team organises and manages itself.
7. What some of the team’s strengths and weaknesses are.
8. Which other parts of the business the team interacts with.
9. What the plans of the business are.
10. What key challenges the business is faced with.
11. What the hiring manager likes about the employer, and what they don’t like.
12. Who the major competitors are. And what makes them different.
13. How well the business is performing now, and if there are any parts of the business that are underperforming.
14. When you can expect to hear back from the company.
15. If there is anything else that you should know about the role before you close the interview.

At SA3, we know that the process of finding a new role can be daunting and we really want to help you. We want you to remember us for making your life easier. We know that good recruitment is more than just submitting a strong resume, and we also provide interview preparation services. Give us a call and put us to the test.