What most applicants fail to understand is they are both interviewee and interviewer. From an interviewer’s standpoint, the most important questions are those a candidate asks during an interview. These questions let a prospective employer know you’re serious about the job, and the answers should reveal how well the job aligns with your values and goals.
- What challenges will the person hired have to deal with the first week or month on the job?
If the answer to this question reveals that the challenges facing the new employee are out of your skill set, education level and expertise, it may be better to face the fact you’re not right for the job. Who wants to be doomed from the start?
- How have others in this position succeeded? Failed?
If you’re a creative independent type who doesn’t care for a lot of rules, and the answer to your question reveals that the last person succeeded because they followed procedures and didn't ask questions, this work environment may not be for you.
- What would it take to get an exceptional rating on a performance review?
Imagine the hiring manager says, “No one ever gets an exceptional performance rating. There is always room for improvement.” Will you be working for a manager who doesn’t fully appreciate the effort of his employees? Is he the kind of manager who is never satisfied with results, no matter how much effort you put in? Will you be frustrated and demotivated?
- What kind of person would work best with the team already in place?
You might hear: “We’re like a big family. Everyone is willing to work long hours and weekends until the job is done.” Or: “A person who can handle a lot of stress and constant changes.” Either of these answers could be enough to take a second look at the job. If you don’t fit the profile, better to know now than later.
- What would prevent you from hiring me after completing this interview?
Should you hear "your salary requirements; you’re out of our price range,” will you stand your ground, lower your expectations, or negotiate for other forms of compensation, like free or reduced-cost benefits, additional vacation and sick leave, or a company-paid laptop and smartphone? This answer could be a test to see how valuable you think you are.
Don't be afraid to ask tough questions in your interview. The answers will let you if you’re right for the job—and if the job is right for you.
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