Attending your first-ever job interview can be a nerve-wracking experience, but being prepared will boost your confidence and increase your chances of success.
While it’s common for interviewers to ask questions, it’s equally essential for you, as the interviewee, to ask thoughtful and relevant questions.
We’ve compiled the ultimate list of questions to ask at your next interview, specifically tailored to help you navigate this vital step in your professional journey!
First Things First: Why is it Important to Ask Questions at an Interview?
There are lots of reasons why asking questions is important. Below we’ve broken down some of the most vital ones:
- Demonstrates Interest and Engagement: Asking thoughtful and relevant questions shows the interviewer you’ve researched and are genuinely interested in the position and the company.
- Provides Additional Information: Interviews are not only an opportunity for the employer to evaluate your suitability for the role but also for you to gather more information about the company, the role, and the work environment.
- Shows Preparation and Initiative: Preparing questions in advance shows you’ve taken the time to understand the role and think critically about what matters to you.
- Evaluates Fit: Asking questions about company culture, team dynamics, or work-life balance helps you assess whether the organization aligns with your values, goals, and priorities.
- Builds Rapport: Asking questions can create a more conversational atmosphere during the interview. It helps build rapport with the interviewer, fostering a positive connection and allowing you to showcase your communication skills.
Remember: Avoid asking questions solely on salary or benefits, as those topics are best discussed after receiving an offer!
The Ultimate List of Questions to Ask & Why
When it comes to asking questions at your interview – whether it’s for a part-time, casual role, an apprenticeship, a graduate program, or at an assessment center – there are a few different types of questions you can focus on.
The best ones for you to ask will vary depending on the role you’re applying to and what you’d like to know!
We know it’s common for many people to get cold feet when asking questions or not knowing what they should be asking. Once you’ve read this list, you’ll never feel like that again!
Questions About Company Culture and Team Dynamics
Understanding the working environment and how well you’ll fit into the team is essential. Knowing more about the company’s culture will help gauge whether it aligns with your values.
Example Questions:
- Can you tell me more about the company culture and the team dynamics within the organization?
- Who will I report to, and what is the management structure like?
- What policies or support networks do you have for diversity and equality?
Questions About Growth and Development Opportunities
Everyone wants to be able to grow and learn in their role. Knowing if there are training programs, mentorship opportunities, or chances for advancement within the company is beneficial.
Example Questions:
- What growth and development opportunities are available for someone in this position?
- How soon am I eligible for development opportunities?
- Do you offer mentoring opportunities, and what does that involve?
Questions About Expectations and Responsibilities
Understanding the role’s specific responsibilities and expectations will help you assess if you have the necessary skills and qualifications to excel in the position. It will also give you a clear idea of what the employer is looking for.
Example Questions:
- Could you outline this role’s key responsibilities and expectations?
- What are some of the initial projects or tasks that I would be involved in?
- What do you view as the key priorities for this role?
- Do you have any concerns about any gaps in my skills or experience? (Use this question to objection-handle anything they say. For example, if they say they’re worried you don’t have a specific skill, explain your other skills that will support you in the role and how you’re keen to learn and grow).
Questions About Work-Life Balance
If you’re still studying, balancing your education and other commitments alongside work is essential. Understanding how the company values work-life balance helps you know how to manage your responsibilities effectively.
Example Questions:
- How does the company support work-life balance for its employees, particularly for someone in my age group?
- What flexibility is available if I need time off, for exams, for example?
- What hybrid or remote working options are available? (where appropriate).
Questions About the Company’s Future Goals and Challenges
Learning about the company’s goals and challenges will allow you to better assess its growth potential and understand the industry landscape.
Example Questions:
- What are the company’s future goals, and what are its current challenges?
- Where do you see this role going in five years?
- How does this role fit into the future goals of the company?
Questions About Initial Support and Training
Knowing the support and training opportunities available to help you succeed in the role and contribute effectively to the company when you first start is vital. It provides you with the reassurance that you will be supported to succeed and do your best – especially if you don’t have prior experience.
Example Questions:
- What kind of support and training can I expect if I were to be selected for this role?
- If I’m successful, what will my onboarding process involve?
- What mentoring or coaching is offered for new employees to settle in and learn the ropes?
Always Be Prepared!
Being prepared with thoughtful questions can leave a lasting impression on the interviewer and showcase your genuine interest in the position and the company.
The example questions above serve as a starting point but feel free to personalize them or develop your own.
Remember, an interview is not only an opportunity for the employer to assess your suitability for the role but also for you to evaluate if the company aligns with your aspirations.
Good luck with your interviews, and may these questions help you navigate the process with confidence and success!
