The Questions You Should Ask During an Interview

By Brittany Loeffler on January 18, 2017

One of the most important parts of a job interview is asking your interviewer questions. Some may think the most important part of an interview is answering the questions directed towards you by an employer. This is not the case — not asking questions can cost you the position.

Asking your future employer questions shows that you researched the company and position you’re interviewing for and that you are interested in the job. It also helps you to learn more about the position (other than the job advertisement) and to decide if the job is a right fit for you.

Knowing the right, and wrong, questions to ask during an interview will differentiate you from other candidates. We’ve come up with a list of the most important questions to ask during an interview and questions you should never ask.

via Pixabay

Good Questions to Ask During an Interview

Can you describe a typical day for this position?

Asking about everyday responsibilities will show your interest in the details of the position. This question also gives you an idea of what you will be doing each day.

What important qualities are required for this position?

The answer to this question will help you decide if this job is right for you. If you feel that you have the qualities the interviewer suggests or are willing to obtain them, you will feel more confident about the job.

What are your expectations for someone in this position?

Knowing what kind of expectations your boss or supervisor has can help you decide if you are able to succeed in this position or not.

What is the company culture like?

The culture of the company can affect your happiness while working there. If a business and professional environment intimidate you, then choose to work for a more laid-back and casual company.

How do you respond to conflict?

This question is usually directed towards you, but feel free to ask your interviewer how they handle conflict as well. It’s important to work together with colleagues and resolve conflict quickly and professionally.

How has this position evolved?

When you ask this question, you show your interviewer your interest in growing within the company and willingness to take on more responsibilities. If the position is a dead-end, you may not have opportunities for advancement.

What do you like about working for this company?

Ask your interviewer what they like about working at the company. Hearing a personal opinion can give you more insight into the realities of working there.

How do you evaluate success?

This is an important question to ask during an interview because it gives you an idea of what you need to do to be recognized as successful by your boss or supervisor.

How do I compare to other candidates?

It’s okay to ask about other people being interviewed for the job. It will give you a realistic idea as to how qualified you are for the position and how likely you will be hired.

Is there anything else I can provide that was not covered in the interview?

Asking this question shows your interviewer your willingness to offer more than asked.

When will you make your decision?

At the conclusion of the interview, ask when they expect to make a decision. This question calms your nerves and gives you a timeline of when you should hear back by.

via Pixabay

Questions NOT to Ask During an Interview

What is the salary?

Asking this question shows your interviewer that you are more interested in making money than performing the job itself.

Do I get an employee discount?

Once again, this question makes it seem that you prioritize your own benefit from the job over the company’s benefit of hiring you.

Will I get a promotion or a raise quickly?

You are not interviewing for future positions; only focus on the job you have applied for.

Will there be a drug test?

Even if you will pass a drug test if given, asking this question makes it seem like you have something to hide.

What does your company do?

We can’t stress this enough: always research the company you are interviewing for. Showing up unprepared demonstrates that you aren’t interested in the job.

via Pixabay

Other Tips

*Answer your interviewer with confidence. Show them that you know you are the right person for the job.

*Always shake their hand at the beginning and end of the interview. Keep eye contact when listening and answering questions.

*Dress your best! Sometimes it’s tricky to know whether you should dress business casual or business professional. My rule of thumb is that dressing professionally will never hurt your chances of getting a job.

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