Questions to ask at an interview
When you hear the ill-fated words, “do you have any questions?” make sure you’re prepared with the following:
When can I expect to hear from you and what are the next steps?
We’ve all been there – you’ve come to the end of the interview, and you’re wondering how you’ve done and when you’ll hear back from the employer. If they haven’t volunteered this information yet, then do ask about the next stage in the process. This will give you an idea what to expect next as every company’s application/interview process is different.
Do you have any doubts about whether I am suited to this position?
This is a bit of a brazen question, but it will help clarify any reservations they might have about you (which you can then address) in addition to reaffirming why you are in fact the right person for the role.
Is there an opportunity to grow within the company?
The trick to this question is how you word it. You don’t want it to sound like you’re only concerned with career progression and that this is a tactical move. The interviewer wants to know that you’re excited about the job at hand and you’re keen to be doing the work.
However, asking about an opportunity for growth shows that you want to stay with the company and to contribute in a meaningful way. They want someone who’s ambitious and who won’t rest on their laurels, just make sure you convey this passion and drive the right way.
In what way do you measure performance?
This question shows that you’re goal oriented and results-driven, a quality that all employers can appreciate.
How to answer tough interview questions
We teamed up with The Daily Mirror’s Careers Editor, Tricia Phillips to offer a free webinar on how to answer tough interview questions. We sent a survey towards the end of last year and wanted to know what questions you got in an interview and needed advice for. We received some great responses, some very surprising and some common so we decided to cover them in the following webinar.
How do I follow-up after an interview?
Be sure to send the employer a thank you note; not only will they appreciate the gesture, but it will keep you on the company’s radar. Then try and sit tight until decision day. If you still haven’t heard back by the agreed date then it might be time to put in a personable, professional call or email.
If there’s still no word, chances are the recruiter or employer are still deliberating, so badgering them for feedback won’t do you any favours. Even if you got on famously, don’t be tempted to get in touch before the agreed date or to send your interviewer an invitation via LinkedIn.
