You’re in the final stretch! With the interview almost complete, you feel you have done your very best. You showcased your accomplishments, provided seamless responses, and appeared to have built a positive rapport with the hiring manager. You’re feeling confident, to say the least, until she asks if you have any questions.
While you may have entered with a few, they seem to have all been covered. Your mind goes blank, and you start to feel a bit unsure. Not asking any question or the “right” question could reflect poorly on your performance. You politely let the hiring manager know that she was more than thorough and if you do think of any, you will reach out…still. You can’t help but think that you missed an opportunity.
The good news is, all is not lost. We’ve all been there, unsure of what to ask or say. And, while a positive interview isn’t going to be thrown out the window due to the lack of a question, it can be further enhanced by asking the right one.
But asking a question during an interview goes beyond just the impression you make. I want you to remember something… During an interview, you aren’t just there for the company to see if you’re a fit for the role. You’re there to see if the company is a fit for YOU. This is YOUR opportunity to decide whether you WANT to work for this company or not. You are essentially interviewing each other. Asking pointed questions is a key part of that. Here are the top 3 questions you can ask, and why.
1.) How would you describe your company’s culture?
Does the answer align with your personal values? For example, if you have young children at home, you may be looking for a family-oriented culture, where flexible, work-at-home days prevail, and babies on laps during Zoom calls are the norm. Or you may be just out of college or nearing retirement, and searching for a more formal atmosphere. You want to be a part of a company that you feel comfortable in.
2.) What are some of the qualities you think of when you recall your top employees – past or present?
This will not only show you what the hiring manager is searching for, but it will also provide you with some serious insight. If the manager describes the work culture as “extremely family-friendly” but goes on to say her best employee was the one that stayed late and came in on weekends, that wouldn’t exactly align with what you were told. Watch out for red flags…
3.) Can you tell me what projects you foresee me working on (if I were to be selected for this role), and what you hope to achieve?
Visualize yourself within the position. Do the responsibilities associated with the role line up with the job description, your skillset, and what you have been told? The answer to this question will allow you to set a realistic expectation, helping you to mentally (and technically) prepare.
Interviews can be tricky. If you are just starting out on your job search journey, or are well on your way, my comprehensive training program here at The Job Search School can help. Sign up for my free Masterclass today… Your dream job is waiting!
Menu