Preparing for an interview can be nerve-wracking, but one way to ease your nerves is to come prepared with questions to ask the interviewer. Showing a genuine curiosity about the company is a great way to check if it's a good match for you. It shows your interest and helps you decide if it's a good fit for your career goals.
Asking your Interviewer about Company Culture
One important aspect to consider when evaluating a job opportunity is company culture. By asking questions about the company’s culture, you can get a sense of their work environment, values, and expectations. Here are some sample questions to ask:
“How would you describe the company culture at <company name> ?”
“How does the company promote work-life balance?”
“What are the values that the company prioritizes?”
“One of the core values mentioned in the company website was ____, what are some instances that company has practiced it?
Asking your Interviewer about Job Expectations
An important part of any interview is understanding what the job entails. To ensure the role is a good fit for you, help you anticipate potential surprises or challenges that may come with the role, and clarify any information upfront, and save everyone's time. Here are some questions you could ask your interviewer:
“What are the performance expectations for this role over the first 30, 60, and 90 days?”
“What are some challenges that someone in this role might face?”
Deal-breaker questions: “Similar positions with your competitors include responsibility over ____, is that something that is expected in this company?”
Asking your Interviewer about Career Development Opportunities
When thinking about a job, consider both the immediate duties and the chance to grow in the company. You can understand how committed a company is to developing its employees by asking about growth opportunities. Here are some sample questions to ask:
“What opportunities for professional development or advancement exist?”
“How often are performance reviews conducted and how do they impact career advancement?”
“Can you share some examples of how the company has helped employees grow their careers?”
Asking your Interviewer about Company Performance
Finally, it's important to consider the financial health and performance of the company before accepting a job offer. Research the company's financial reports online to get an idea of the financial health. You can understand the company's growth and how it aligns with your career by asking about its financials and potential. Start by giving a statement, then ask a related follow-up question. Here are some sample questions to ask:
“I've read that <company name> has had record profits in the last year. Is this something you expect to continue?”
“I've read that <company name> had a more modest profit than usual last year. Was there more investment than usual?”
“How is <company name> planning to take advantage of <technological development>?”
These follow-up questions are specific to them, and the future, and demonstrate a real interest in finding out about them has already been made.
Asking your Interviewer about Your Deal-Makers and Deal-Breakers
Psychologically speaking, it's super important to value yourself highly (not crazy highly) during an interview. This stops the interviewers from getting the idea they are picking whoever they want, and everyone offered a job will accept. This gives the impression it's more of a negotiation, and you are measuring the company up as well, to see if they are a good fit for YOU. Only bring these up if they are very important to you.
Maker example: I have a child, does <company name> have a flexi-time policy?
Breaker example: Unfortunately, because of my personal circumstances I am not able to work on weekends. Is this something that will be required in this position?
Wrap Up
Interviews can be stressful, but asking thoughtful questions is crucial. Inquire about company culture, job expectations, career development, and company performance to show genuine interest and ensure alignment. Remember, interviews are a two-way conversation. Keep practicing and ask insightful questions to make the most of your opportunities. Good luck!