Quintessential Careers Blog

You know that you’ll be questioned, but what should you ask your interviewer? Use these five questions to get the most out of your job interview and leave a good impression.     You have a job interview. What questions are you planning to ask? Interviewers don’t want to conduct a one-sided grilling session when they meet with a potential candidate. (After all, a job interview should be conversation, not an interrogation or a pop quiz.)  This is your opportunity to learn about the responsibilities this job will entail as well as the exposure and experience you’d gain here. Don’t know where to start? Ask any (or all) of the five listed below. The answers to these questions will provide you with valuable company insights, and your interviewer will be happy that you asked.

Will you please describe the ideal candidate for this role?

Ask your employer what a perfect candidate match might look like, or what a “successful” hire will look like one year from today. This will help you understand what your interviewers are looking for, and then you can decide for yourself how well you fit that mold. You can also use this question to launch yourself into this role and make a great impression starting on day one.

How much collaboration is involved in this position?

Keep your needs in mind as you ask this question. If your interviewer describes this position as highly collaborative, you can use this as an opportunity to show off your teamwork and leadership skills. If this position leans heavily toward independence and self-direction, you can take advantage of the moment to describe your high levels of personal focus and self-discipline. Above all, determine if the description provided seems like a good fit for you.

Can you describe the culture in this workplace?

The answer to this question will help you determine if your personality fits with the company’s. As you listen to the answer, think about your own needs. If you like to work alone, will this job allow you to do so? If you like to work with teams, will you be step into an atmosphere of trust and respect? As badly as you want a job, remember that your wellbeing comes first. It’s important to find a job that is a good culture fit.

It seems like the company is moving in X direction. Is that an accurate assessment?

This question shows that you’ve researched the company and done your homework. (Good for you!) It also gives your interviewer some ideas about how best to deploy your skills and talents. By starting this discussion at the job interview, your interviewer can align your areas of interest with the company’s needs.

It seems like you’re looking for a candidate who will help the company accomplish X. Is that correct?

Use this question to test the waters. If you’re hoping to participate in a certain company initiative, you’ll want to make sure your expectations are in line with reality. It’s important that you and your interviewer are on the same page. Whatever you’d like to do, use this question to make sure it’s likely to happen. For more on how to impress your interviewer and gain the information you need to make a smart career move, explore the tools and resources at Livecareer.

The post Call to Action: Ask These 5 Questions at Your Job Interview appeared first on LiveCareer Blog.