A successful interview involves more than just responding to interview questions – it’s also a chance for you to ask questions of your own. Asking thoughtful questions not only shows your interest in the position and the company, but it would also help you in determining if the position and/or organizational culture would be a good fit. It’s like testing the waters; to see if you and the job are a good match.
When interviewing, make sure the questions you ask are focused on making an informed decision about whether the company would be the right fit for you. These questions can span various subjects, including: role specifics, company values, its mission, teamwork, company struggles, or even the company’s growth plans.
Tailor your questions to showcase your understanding of the company and industry. This can be achieved by referencing recent news, industry trends, or specific achievements of the organization. It not only highlights your preparation, but also demonstrates your ability to connect the dots between your skills and the company’s needs.
By asking about the interviewer’s personal experiences with the company, you can gain valuable insights and build a stronger connection, as well as showing your interest in joining the organization. It’s important to steer clear of generic questions with answers that can be found online via social media, the news, or magazines, unless they help contribute to a meaningful conversation.
Prior to the interview, prepare about a handful of questions; and during the interview, stay as attentive as you can be until prompted for questions – you can also write down any new questions that arise as the conversation flows. Remember, the objective is to engage in a meaningful conversation. Think of questions that encourage open-ended discussions rather than yes/no responses (for example: “Where do you see the organization going in the future?” vs “does the organization encourage self-scheduling?”).
Be mindful of subtle cues that may indirectly address your questions during the interview. Actively listen, stay composed and attentive, and pose insightful questions. Consider the timing and context of your questions during the interview. Avoid bombarding the interviewer with a long list of queries all at once, as this can disrupt the flow of the conversation. Instead, strategically intersperse your questions throughout the interview based on the topics being discussed. This demonstrates that you are actively engaged and genuinely interested in the ongoing dialogue.
Lastly, remember that an interview is a two-way street. Use your questions to gather information and showcase your enthusiasm and passion for the role. Craft questions that allow you to share relevant aspects of your experience or skills, reinforcing why you are the ideal candidate for the position.
In summary, treat the interview as a collaborative conversation where both parties are evaluating each other. Thoughtful and well-timed questions not only help you gather crucial information, but also leave a lasting impression on the interviewer – showcasing your genuine interest and commitment to making a positive contribution to the company.