Interview PRO-TIPS: Best (And Worst!) Questions To Ask In An Interview

Inevitably, towards the latter part of your interview, you’ll be calmly asked whether you have any questions for your interviewer(s). You shouldn’t misinterpret this as a courtesy, it’s an important part of the interview which will definitely be assessed. Luckily, this is another excellent opportunity to showcase yourself so it’s important you’ve done some preparation beforehand.

Your questions should fall into these 6 categories

1. Clarify Your Enquiries – If there’s anything unclear in your mind, this is the time to ask.

2. Eliminate Their Worries – Questions that showcase or emphasis your skills and abilities.

3. Anticipated Future Development – Questions that demonstrate a commitment over the long term that aligns your development goals with those of the company.

4. Build a Stronger Relationship – Questions directed towards the interviewer(s), which aim to leave them with a stronger impression of you.

5. Conclusive – Understand the hiring and acceptance process so you can better prepare for the next step.

Good Questions to Ask

About the company

1. What’s are the company’s most important values, and what is their mission?
2. How do they define and measure success?
3. Were there any major changes in the past and what does the future look like?

About the Role

1. What’s a typical daily routine?
2. What level of performance is expected during probation?
3. What’s the biggest challenge in this role?
4. What does the ideal candidate look like?

About the Interviewer

1. How long have they been working in the company?
2. What are their most unforgettable achievements?

Questions to AVOID

1. Avoid questions that seem self-centered or self-serving, such as anything regarding working hours, benefits or salary (reserve these questions until after you’ve received an offer). Asking these too early will appear insincere to your interviewer(s).

2. Don’t bombard your interviewer(s) with too many little questions, each question should be structured, with a singular focus.

3. Avoid Yes-No (closed) questions where possible. You can usually answer these yourself with a little research. Instead, ask open-ended questions that trigger a discussion.

4. Avoid questions that could be considered too personal, even if you’re already familiar with the interviewer(s).

Remember that an interview is a two-way process and serves as a good opportunity for you to get to know the interviewers and role in more depth, as well as assess whether the company is the right fit for you.