How to Ask Intelligent Questions During a Job Interview
You’ve made it to the job interview stage—congratulations! It’s important to remember that an interview is not just an opportunity for the employer to evaluate you, it’s also a chance for you to assess whether the company and position align with your goals. A powerful way to showcase your interest and engagement is by asking intelligent questions.
Here are some tips on how to ace this part of your job interview.
Research, research, research!
Before the big day, make sure you do your homework. Research the company, its values, mission, and recent achievements. Check out their website, social media presence, and any news articles related to their industry. Arm yourself with this knowledge. You will be better equipped to ask relevant and smart questions during the interview.
Show genuine curiosity.
When it’s time to ask questions, remember to approach them with genuine curiosity. Ask about the company’s future plans, the team dynamics, or any recent projects they’ve undertaken. Show your interest in their industry trends and challenges.
Tailor your questions.
Craft your questions in a way that reflects your understanding of the company and the specific role you’re applying for. You might ask about the opportunities for growth and professional development within the organisation. Try and steer away from any questions that might raise questions about your work ethic – like can I finish earlier on Tuesday and work from home 5 days instead of 4?
Seek clarification.
During the interview, if there’s anything you’re unsure about or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to ask. It’s better to seek clarity upfront rather than making assumptions later on.
Be an active listener.
Asking intelligent questions also requires being an active listener. Pay close attention to what the interviewer is saying, and ask follow-up questions based on their responses.
Don’t rush!
Remember, the interview is a two-way street. It’s an opportunity for both parties to assess the fit. Take your time to ask your questions, and don’t rush through them. Engage in a meaningful conversation and allow the interviewer to provide detailed answers. This demonstrates your respect for their time and commitment to understanding the role thoroughly.
Prepare backup questions.
Lastly, have a few backup questions ready in case some of your initial queries are answered during the interview.