Questions You Need To Ask To Ace Your Job Interview
To make sure the employer knows you’re prepared and interested in the role, you should therefore have some questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. In addition, some questions should be prepared before the interview, while others should focus on points discussed during the talk.
Your interview is going well, you’ve answered all the questions confidently and now the closing stage is approaching. One of the questions you’ll be asked is, “Do you have any questions for me?” To secure a chance at the position, you must always say yes!
Questions you might expect from an interviewer
Interviews can be a high-stress and anxiety-driven situation. However, a little practice and preparation can go a long way to passing the interview stages. While you can’t guarantee which questions will be asked, the following are some of the most common questions asked.
- Tell me about yourself?
- Describe your background in brief?
- How did you hear about this position?
- What attracted to you apply?
- What type of work environment do you prefer?
- Tell me a situation where you overcame a difficult situation?
- How do you keep yourself organised?
- What are your salary expectations?
- What are your strengths/weaknesses?
- What motivates you?
- Do you have any questions?
Questions to NOT ask
During your interview, it’s important to have as many questions as possible to gain more insight into the position and the company. While most are smart questions, there are questions that will raise red flags for interviewers. So to help keep your winning streak alive, here are the questions you need to avoid:
- What does the person do in this role?
- What does the company do?
- Do you have any other position apart from this one?
- How much holiday is on offer?
- What are the working hours and how much will be the salary?
- Who is your competition?
- Can I work from home/Work flexibility?
In addition, make sure to never ask something personal, sexist, discriminating, racist or any other banned topic.
Questions to ask
Question #1
- Can you tell me more about the day-to-day responsibilities of the role?
This question enables you to learn as much about the role as possible. The interviewer’s response will provide insight into what skills and experience are needed. This will help you decide if you are the right fit for the role. In addition, it will highlight the employer’s expectations so there is no surprise when you start the role.
Question #2
- Are there opportunities for training and progression within the role and/or company?
Enquiring about development and progression will show the interviewer you are serious about your career and your role in the organisation.
You don’t want to be stuck in a role with no progression, so if you are unsure whether this is the right path for your career, this question should be on your list. Asking this will help you understand if there is a long-term relationship with the company, or if you need to move on to gain further responsibility and skills.
Question #3
- Where do you see the company in x years?
The reply should give you an insight into the company’s past and future progression plans. It will also give you a general idea about job security but also projects in the making. Asking this question shows interest and commitment to the company’s future plans.
Question #4
- Can you describe the company’s work culture?
This is a great question to gain insight into whether you fit into the culture of the organisation. Employers always look for people who can add to the overall positive social and work culture but also shows what the work-life balance is like.
Question #5
- Can you tell me more about the team I will be working with?
This is a great question to help you understand how the teams are structured, who you report to and which department will you be working with. These are the people you will be working closely with, so it’s worth knowing how dynamic the team is and their working methods.
This question could also provide you with an opportunity to mention any relevant experience or success you’ve had working in a similar setting – giving the employer another reason why you will fit the role.
Question #6
- What are the types of skills is the team missing that you’re looking to fill?
Again, this question will give you a better understanding of the team’s skills. This could give you an opportunity to discuss which skills they are looking for, but also gives you insight into potential skills you will want to pick up.
Question #7
- What sort of budget will I be working with?
This question only applies to certain roles. To better understand the company’s views, asking about the budget will show you whether or not the company values the department you will be joining. In addition, they can give you insight into how tight or expressive your projects can be.
Other questions you can ask:
- Can you show me examples of projects/tasks I will be working on?
- What are the most immediate projects/tasks that need to be addressed?
- How does this position contribute to the company overall?
- Do you expect the main responsibilities for this position to change in the near future?
- What are the biggest challenges that someone in this position will face?
- Is this a newly created role? If not, what is the previous person currently doing?
- Would I be representing the company at industry events?
- What are the performance expectations in the first 6/12 months?
- What metrics or goals will my performance be evaluated against?
Are you thinking about pursuing a master’s at a top UK university? Make your dream come true by seizing this opportunity to either take your career to the next level or tick off a personal interest. *Apply online and we’ll support you on your path to success.
Representative Example: Assumed borrowing of £30,825 over 120 months at 12.73% APR representative. Monthly cost of £509.26. Total amount repayable of £61,199.65. Interest rate of 11.62% p.a.(fixed) and total fees of £925.00. Available for loan amounts between £5,000 – £100,000.
(Representative Example date: October 2024)
*Credit is subject to status and loan approval is not guaranteed. Over 18’s only. Terms and conditions apply.