When preparing for a job interview the focus is usually on preparing so that you can answer any question that’s thrown at you. One thing people can sometimes forget is to prepare questions they can ask the interviewer.
At the end of any interview, you’ll usually be asked if you have your own questions. This is your chance to find out more about the role, the company culture and to show your enthusiasm.
You don’t want to come across as disinterested, so be sure to have a few questions ready. If you’re unsure what to ask, here are 16 examples of good questions to ask an interviewer:
Questions that will tell you about the company culture
These questions should give you an insight into what it’s really like to work for the company and if you’d be a good fit for your potential new team.
- Does the company have any strong values?
- What’s your favourite part about working here?
- What is the team I would be working with like?
- Is there one person I’ll be working closely with? What is their role?
- How long have you been working here?
Questions that will indicate how the interview went
These questions will help you gauge if the interviewer feels you’re suitable for the position.
- What are the next steps in the process?
- If I’m given an offer, how soon would you like me to start?
- Do you need any references or further details from me?
Questions that will highlight any potential challenges
If you have any concerns about the company these questions should help clarify any worries.
- Would you say the company is facing any challenges right now?
- Is this a new role, or am I replacing someone? Why is this position available?
- Are their good opportunities for growth within the company?
- What would the normal career path for a role like this be in this company?
Questions that will you tell you more about the role
If you’re still unsure about what exactly the role you’re interviewing entails these questions will clear that up.
- What will be my main day to day responsibilities?
- What systems do you mainly use, and are they open to change?
- What are the KPIs for this position?
- What other departments will I work with?
And here are 5 questions you should avoid asking…
Try to avoid yes / no questions or anything that is too focused on you and your lifestyle. For example:
- What benefits will I be entitled to?
- How many days annual leave will I have?
- What is the bonus structure?
- What is the normal time period before promotion?
- How does sick leave work?
Leave the above questions until you’ve received an offer if possible. Asking about time off or salary will indicate you’re more interested in personal gain than the job opportunity at hand. Likewise, avoid getting overly familiar or nosey.
Don’t ask anything that the business wouldn’t want to be known publicly and don’t ask anything you wouldn’t ask your boss, because if you’re lucky, that’s what you’re doing.