Questions to ask the Interviewer
Most job applicants are so busy preparing for what the interviewer is likely to ask them, that they forget to prepare some questions for the interviewer to answer.
There will come a point in every interview where the interviewer or panel will turn the table on themselves. They will invite you, the applicant, to ask them a few questions about the company or the job that can clear up any concerns you may have or better yet, display your knowledge of the industry.
The following are a few questions that are sure to make a good impression.
Why is this position vacant?
It is always good to have an idea of what you are getting into. You may not find out why the last person was fired, but at least you will know if you are replacing someone that was well-loved, filling a newly created vacancy or if you are a last-ditch attempt to get someone that will stay in the position.
What is the typical work day for this position like?
If you are being interviewed by someone who works on the floor or who is likely to be your peer or supervisor this is a good one to ask. You will leave with a fair idea of the schedule so you can assess if you would accept if the offer is extended to you.
What is the company’s biggest challenge and what is being put in place to meet it?
This is sure to impress. It shows that you are able to conceptualize the bigger picture and that you are brave enough to bring up challenges that may put executives on the spot.
What are the prospects for growth in the company?
This question shows that you are interested in the well-being of the company as a whole because you realize that your personal performance is tied to the overall business growth.
What are some of the things that ensure you advance within the company?
This highlights the fact that you want to do the right thing. Every company has certain traits that they value above all others and finding them out sooner rather than later is always good for your career trajectory.
Why do you enjoy working for this company?
This one will make the interviewer smile because it is such a personal spin on an interview question. It will give you the chance to hear them speak off the cuff and learn what they consider to be great about the company you’ve applied to work for.
If I am selected how soon would I be expected to start?
This is a practical question and it shows that you have some confidence, yet you have enough sense not to be overly presumptuous.
If you memorize two or three of these suggestions they are bound to get you to the next round of the elimination and they may even land you the job.
