Should You Ask Questions On Your Job Interview
Many candidates have the mistaken notion that an interview is just a one-way street. The interviewer will ask some questions, to which they need to hear the most appropriate answers. However, remember that an interview is always a two-way street. If the interviewer is assessing whether you’re fit for the job, then you need to assess whether the organization suits your requirements as well.
Most interviews commence with the interviewer evaluating you, your skills, your qualifications and your experience. Toward the end of the interview however, the interviewer will invariably ask whether you have any questions. Seize the moment and check whether the goals of the organization align with your aspirations and expectations. The ability to ask intelligent questions often changes perceptions that the hiring manager might have formed about you. By giving up the opportunity to ask questions, the interviewer might conclude that you’re not sufficiently interested or intelligent.
Consider asking some of the following questions when you attend an interview next.
* What are the some of the biggest opportunities that the organization is currently pursuing?
* In your opinion, what distinguishes this organization from its competitors – from the perspective of its employees as well as the general public?
* How would your team members describe the work culture and the leadership philosophy of this organization?
* Does the organization provide opportunities to its employees for furthering their educational or professional skills?
* What are the specific qualities or skills that you’re looking for in the ideal candidate for this role?
* How does this position contribute to the long-term success of the organization?
* What do I need to do to achieve success in this role?
* Could you give me a few examples of the kinds of projects I would be working on?
* What is the typical career trajectory for a person working in this role?
* How would you rate me in comparison to an ideal candidate for this role? Are there any concerns that you feel might prevent me from getting this job?
* What are your timelines for making a decision concerning this role? What is the next step?
Prepare a list of four to five questions for the interview. You might cover some of them during the course of the interview. However, ensure that you don’t end the interview without asking at least a couple of pertinent questions. By asking the right questions, you ensure that:
– You express your interest in the job and the company to the interviewer
– You ascertain whether the organization meets your expectations and,
– You remove any reservations that the interviewer might have about you
Therefore, overcome any reservations you might have when you ask your questions. A relationship usually prospers when the two parties concerned are equals. By putting forth your questions, you ensure that you begin your relationship with your potential employer on the right note.
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Check out more tips on how to ace your next job interview here.
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