Great questions to ask during an interview

Congratulations! You have successfully reached the point in your job application process when you have been invited for an interview from the company. But the question is: what to do now? Preparing for a job interview, either face-to-face, phone or even a skype interview is a very important and thorough process, crucial part of which is preparing the absolute must ask questions during a job interview. Asking good, intelligent and well-prepared questions during an interview, shows the employer that you are really interested in the position for which you are applying and that you are serious about working in the organization. On the contrary, not having any questions prepared or asking questions that might have already been answered during the interview is most certainly a bad sign.

Tips for great questions to ask during an interview:

1. Questions about the job description
Job descriptions usually go so far to give the job seekers only a basic guideline for the position available. That is why, during the job interview it is very important to ask questions elaborating on the job description. It is important for you to know what will be expected from you to do. However, it also shows the interviewer that you have done your homework in preparing for the interview.
• Where does the focus of the position lay?
• Are there any tasks or activities that have not been mentioned in the job description?
• Will I work alone for this position, or in a team?
• From how many members consists the team?
• How many people will I manage for this position?
• Who will I be reporting to for this position?

2. Questions about the organization
Before asking any questions about the organization you are being interviewed to be part of, do a good research on their website about their mission, main activities, goals, partners, current news about the organization, etc.
• Can you give me an impression of the department’s atmosphere?
• Who are the most important clients/partners?
• What is the position of the vacancy’s department within the company?

3. Questions about the job requirements
With such questions you can see to what extent your skills and experience match the job requirements. It is important for you to know what are your strengths and weaknesses with regard to the position you are applying for.
• Which requirements do you consider to be the most important requirements that have to be met?
• Why is that requirement specifically important for you?
• In the job advertisement you mention you are looking for someone who…?
• Does this fit within your position?

A good last advice is to prepare three to five questions that are important for you and will give you the most important information you are interested in. Write them down and don’t be afraid to ask!

By: Iva Plocheva