One of the most basic indicators of a good interview is an engaging conversation. The conversation doesn’t have to be the best one you’ve ever had but if you’re nodding along to whatever the recruiter is saying and not being an active participant in the discussion, then odds are you won’t be getting that job.
Hiring managers and experts agree that asking questions and showing interest during your interview is one of the most important things when it comes to getting a job. This isn’t an easy trick to master and it takes practice and preparation. Here are 5 questions you should always ask in a job interview in order to give the impression that you’re very prepared and invested in the position.
What are the challenges the position provides?
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This question can tell you a lot about your future job, letting you know more than the brief description that’s provided on the job search website. By asking this question directly, you’ll get a chance to hear the details of the inner workings of the company from an employee. They might tell you about the people you’ll be working with, the office space, and other potentially unsavory bits of information such as challenging workers, bad coffee, and budget limitations on certain areas of your job.
What’s a typical day in this job?
Aside from the fact that you’re visualizing yourself in the position and that looks great for your confidence, this question is also pretty damn vital when starting off in a new job. Whatever your new job entails, the more information you have, the more prepared you’ll be and the better you’ll perform.
What are the company’s values?
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Before you ask this question, be sure to do your homework — researching the company and obtaining a deeper and clearer picture of who they are. This question should tell you what the company values most, giving you tools that’ll help you thrive in your new job position.
What differentiates the good employees vs. the great ones?
Alison Green, job recruiter and expert, told The Cut that this was the strongest question she’d ever been asked in a job interview, cutting straight to the heart of what hiring managers are looking for. By asking this question, you’re positioning yourself as someone who wants to deliver the best work possible and who wants to excel in their new position.
What is the company’s culture and work environment?
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Every company is different, with some caring deeply about hierarchy and organization, and others caring more about creating a relaxing environment where everyone is free to do their own thing. With this question, you’ll know what to expect your first day on the job or maybe even set off an alarm or two regarding this new position that doesn’t fit well with who you are as an employee.
