Usually, the last question candidates face when interviewing for an open position is, “Do you have any questions for me?” While it may seem like saying “no” is a smart move, effectively demonstrating that you paid attention and feel well-informed, it isn’t the best choice.
Instead, by asking intelligent questions, you come across as more engaged and enthusiastic. Plus, it gives you a chance to gather more information about the job, company culture, and more.
Ideally, you want to have a handful of questions on standby, ensuring you have something to ask if nothing comes to mind during the interview. If you aren’t sure where to begin, here are five questions to ask your potential employer during a job interview.
1. Do You Need Me to Clarify Anything We Discussed Today?
With this question, you’re creating an opportunity to reopen doors. If the hiring manager wants more details about your capabilities, they can use this time to get any needed clarification. That allows you to improve your position as a candidate in a way that matters to the hiring manager.
If the hiring manager states that they don’t need you to clarify any points, that isn’t a bad sign if you know you offered comprehensive answers during the interview. Should that occur, you can simply move on to your next question.
2. Can You Describe Your Management and Leadership Style?
As a job seeker, finding a position that’s a great fit for you should be a priority. This question allows you to learn more about what the manager brings to the table and if their management and leadership style aligns with your needs.
Ideally, they’ll describe approaches that match your preferences when it comes to feedback, oversight, delegation, and other key functions. If they don’t, then you may want to reflect on whether the environment is a good fit.
3. Why Is This Position Currently Available?
Asking questions that let you find out more about the history of the role is beneficial. If the hiring manager describes a high turnover rate or degrades those who’ve held the job previously, that’s a potential red flag. However, if they discuss normal workforce shifts – such as a long-standing employee leaving due to a move or the position becoming vacant due to an internal promotion – it could be a sign of a solid workplace.
4. What’s the Onboarding Process Like?
A comprehensive onboarding process typically sets new hires up for success. Similarly, if the onboarding process is lacking, it could mean having to figure out a significant portion of the job on your own, which isn’t ideal.
When the hiring manager responds, listen for details that indicate the company is diligent about supporting new hires. Buddy systems, mentorship programs, and lengthy onboarding periods are all potentially positive.
5. What’s Expected of the New Hire During Their First 90 Days in the Role?
With this question, you can gather details about the type of workload you may have and how they’ll measure success. Additionally, it lets you know if the organization sets reasonable, realistic targets. While the goals the hiring manager set force can be challenging, they shouldn’t be lofty to the point of being unachievable. If they are, that should give you pause.
Ultimately, all five of the questions above are worth asking at the end of a job interview. If you’d like to learn more about how you can stand out during the interview process, the staff at The Squires Group wants to hear from you. Contact us today.
