Good Questions To Ask In An Interview

When it comes to your turn to ask any questions in a job interview, you want to ensure that you have prepared ahead of time so that you do not end up sitting there silently.

Make sure that you have prepared some clear and concise questions. This is not the time to be asking general questions about the company.  Those of the sort of things that you should have found out about when you were doing your research before the interview.

Do make sure that you pay attention to what the interviewer says during the interview and how they could help you pose the questions you have prepared.  They  give you information, for example, that can help you in deciding whether the position is one you really want.

As an example, the interviewer might mention a high level of turnover of staff or indeed you may have discovered that during your research? Does it indicate that there is a problem with the position or the company or does it mean that people are being promoted internally?

If a company is frequently hiring for the same position it could mean that people are leaving because it’s not a good place to work; it could mean that people come in and get promoted within the company or it could mean that the company is experiencing growth and needs more people. Unless you ask the question you are not going to know!  So don’t be afraid to ask why the position is available.

If you received a copy of the Job Description or the requirements of the role were outlined during the application process, then you will have a good idea what the role is about.  However, you will want to know if there are any other responsibilities associated with the position.

If they have not been made clear already you will want to ask what the work schedule is.  You will also want to ask if weekends or overtime is required or a possibility if that is something you are interested in.

If it isn't something you are interested in, but the company expects then you want to know before you accept the position if it is offered don't you. 

Every good company carries out performance review which should include looking at training needs. In some instances they may also be related to pay reviews and increases.  So you will want to know when performance reviews are done and what you can expect from them.

As a probationary period is fairly standard for any new hire, you will also want to know how and when your performance will be evaluated. You can also ask the interviewer if there is anything else they would like to know about the skills you can bring to the company.

If they have not told you about what happens after the interview then a good way to close your questions at a job interview is to ask when you will know the decision about whether or not you will be offered the position. You can simply ask, “When will I know your decision?” If you’re given a time frame, then you could look to continue your contact with the company by asking, “Is it okay if I give you a call then?”

So spend some time preparing and thinking ahead of your interview to ensure that you have some good questions to ask in an interview!