I interviewed a candidate this week, and towards the end of the interview I asked: “do you have any questions for me?’ They were well prepared and asked thoughtful, insightful questions that not only impressed me, but also conveyed their genuine interest in the role. Their questions gave me a clear sense of what matters most to them, should theybe successful for the role. It really got me thinking about how powerful great questions can be, and how best to prepare for an interview.
My experience over the last few years has shown that the balance when interviewing candidates is not just about the interviewer or hiring manager determining if the candidate is right for the role, but just as much about the candidate interviewing the panel to ensure that the role and the business is the right fit for them moving forward. The bonus for you as the interviewee, is that employers don’t just want to know about your skills and experience, they are also looking for signs that you are prepared and motivated to move through the recruitment process. One of the best ways to demonstrate this is by asking thoughtful, well prepared questions.
As I mentioned before, when you’re exploring a new role, it’s not just about whether you are the right fit for the company, it’s equally important to figure out if the company, manager, and role are the right fit for you. Smart, thoughtful, researched questions can assist you in digging deeper into the culture, expectations and future direction of the business to help you make an informed decision with as much information as possible.
It’s no longer about asking “What are the hours? Do you have a uniform? What’s the salary?” Yes, they are valid questions, but they don’t provide you with any real insight into the business and don’t leave a lasting impression with the interviewer. Hopefully these kinds of questions have already been covered off or the information presented to you as part of the application process.
Instead, here are some questions that I have been asked in an interview that stuck with me, and you can benefit from too:
- What does success look like after 6 / 12 months?
This one is a favorite! This question helps you to understand the long term expectations and priorities of the role, giving you a clear picture of what the business values.
- What do the most successful people in your company have in common?
Rather than a generic culture question, this one digs deeper. You’ll uncover the traits and attributes that really drive success in the business.
- How would you describe your leadership style?
This can you give you some valuable insights into what it will actually be like to work under a particular manager and what attributes they show that align with what you’re looking for.
- Are there learning and development opportunities available (mentorship, training etc)?
Asking about learning and development shows you’re invested in growing with the business, whilst also giving you an insight into how much they invest in their people.
- What challenges or opportunities do you see the business/department facing in the next 12-18 months?
Asking about upcoming challenges demonstrates strategic thinking and helps you see how the role fits into the business’s bigger picture, while also giving you a realistic idea of what you might be walking into.
Going into an interview prepared with smart, thoughtful questions shows initiative, curiosity and genuine interest. It helps to position you as someone who wants to add value while also ensuring the opportunity is right for you.
Next time you’re in the interview seat, remember asking great questions isn’t just about gathering information, it’s one of the simplest ways to leave a strong, lasting impression.
