A job interview isn’t just about demonstrating that you’re capable of taking on a new role: you should be making sure that it’s a job that you want to be doing as well. So you’re bound to have some questions of your own. And bringing a few questions also shows the interviewer you care about the job you’re competing for. But what are the best things to ask of your interviewer?
The best questions should be specific to the job you’re applying for – not every question will be best for each situation, but hopefully these suggestions can give you some ideas and make sure you make the most of even a short interview.
How did you get to where you are now?
If you’re interviewing at a fairly small company like many of those in Stockport, then you’ll probably be being interviewed by the founder of the business. Asking about his or her beginnings and how the business has grown will likely give you a good insight into the values of the business and whether that will be a good fit for you. It also shows a bit of ambition too, by suggesting a willingness to learn from someone else’s successes.
What would my typical day’s work be like?
You should know the duties of the job from before you go to interview, but this question will allow you know how the different tasks you’ll be doing will break down – you may learn that the bulk of your job will be the part of it that you think you won’t like; or that the job will play into your strengths. It also means that, should you get the job, you won’t be caught by surprise when you’re roped into a 9am tai-chi session to get everyone ready for the day.
What would you say people enjoy most about working here?
A happy worker is generally a more productive worker, so it will always benefit both sides of the table if people enjoy their jobs. If a hiring manager struggles with this question, it could be a bit of a red flag that either it isn’t a great atmosphere in the office, or that there’s some lack of communication between management and the boots on the ground.
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the business/industry?
This question could just as easily be one that you might face yourself, so prepare to answer it and, if you don’t get asked it then see how you’re potential new boss sees things. If much of what they’re saying seems to be a little outdated then it could suggest the company has already fallen behind the times and might not be the ideal place for you if you want to pick up new skills in your career. Equally, it’s a good opportunity to make sure your homework and preparation doesn’t go to waste when the interviewer inevitably asks what you think.
What can I do if there’s a lull in the work I need to be doing?
One of our candidates really impressed in an interview with this question a couple of months ago. It just demonstrates that you’re not work-shy. Some people will quite happily twiddle their thumbs while they wait for other people to give them things to do; others will go the extra mile and seek work out. Needless to say, this kind of attitude got our applicant the job!
