Job interviews can be some of the most exhausting and stressful 45-60 minutes of your life. Right after you’ve sold yourself and answered the employer’s questions comes the moment when the dynamic changes and the person in front asks you, “Do you have any questions for me?” »
I have often wondered if there is an ideal answer (or, in this case, a question) to raise at this moment. What issues constitute a productive use of the employer’s time? Is the invitation a mere formality? And what questions should I avoid asking so as not to give the employer a bad image of me?
I reached out to HR professionals to learn more about how best to handle this classic end-of-interview phase.
Why your questions are important
Before discussing the questions to ask, it is important to understand why it is important to ask them. As cliché as it sounds, a job interview is a negotiation process in which you and the company choose to invest yourselves. So take the opportunity to ask at least one question that will help you determine if the company is right for you.
“The company is looking to determine if the candidate is a good fit for the job, but it’s also an opportunity for the candidate to make sure they can succeed in this company,” says Dr. Lenaghan, director of the Zarb School of Business from Hofstra University.
Five questions to ask in an interview
1. What do you like most about the company culture?
Asking a general question can be a great way to help change the dynamics of the interview, while helping you learn more about one of the most important aspects: company culture.
Valerie Rector, vice president of human resources at Ping Identity, suggests starting by asking, “What do you like most about the company culture?” What’s more unique? »
“Although it’s a bit cliché, it’s still a great question that keeps the conversation going while telling what’s unique about the company’s leadership style,” says Valerie Rector.
2. What are the changes that have the most impact on your team?
It’s important to ask questions, but be careful not to ask questions that are easily answered by browsing the company’s website or social media. Instead, show your interviewer that you are not only interested in the position in question, but that you can also ask questions about the industry in general.
According to Dr Lenaghan, it is important to carry out an “environmental scan” to understand what is happening in the sector and what is coming up. What are the consequences of these changes on your potential role and work process?
3. Why did you join this company?
This question may seem silly, but it’s another great way to establish an emotional connection between two people. For example, you may share similar interests and an appetite for the same things professionally.
Valerie Rector recommends asking, “Why did you join the company? or “How have you evolved since taking up your post?” Your interviewer’s journey may make you think of something you hadn’t considered before.
4. What does success in this role look like?
Accepting a job offer only concludes the interview process, but succeeding in this role should be your ultimate goal; it is also the employer’s ultimate hope. To show your interviewer your initiative, ask them what success looks like in this position.
“I think it’s a great starting point, whether you’re the hiring manager or the potential candidate, to really understand what are the things that will go into getting a good annual review,” says Valerie Rector.
Asking these questions may seem presumptuous at first glance, but it demonstrates confidence and drive. Also, it’s good to have an overview of the expectations before going any further in the process.
“It gives a good image of the candidate, because it shows that he wants to succeed,” she adds.
5. What is the team dynamic?
Even if you think the job and company culture is a perfect fit for you, it’s important to know how the team works.
“How did the team work together? How are each of the members? How are their meetings going? What are the expectations? All of this is very important,” says Sue Swan, Chief People Officer at Summus Global.
With telecommuting and hybrid working becoming the new norm, you also need to ensure that there is good team spirit and good communication in order to be successful.
“In order for you to feel engaged, it helps to understand which specific software platform(s) – Zoom or Teams – you will be using,” says Sue Swan.
Three questions not to ask in a job interview
While you should always save a question or two for the end of the interview, the following questions are “not recommended” by HR professionals – at least in the early stages of interviews.
1. How much leave am I entitled to?
Even if it’s an important question, you shouldn’t ask it, especially if it’s a preliminary interview or a first contact.
“I’ve always thought it was a bit awkward when someone who doesn’t even have the job yet asks about things like vacation,” says Valerie Rector.
However, it is important to ensure that you will not be overworked. So ask instead, “What does work-life balance look like?” Not only is this question better worded, but it also helps to learn more about the company culture.
2. Anything that can be easily found on the company’s website or social media.
Asking for something that can easily be found on the company’s website can give the interviewer the impression that you are not serious or unprepared.
“Make sure your questions can’t be answered with a simple search,” advises Dr. Lenaghan.
If the company’s website has a page detailing its approach and philosophy, don’t ask why the company is struggling. Instead, you might ask how the company stands up for its values, mentioning specific terms to show that you’ve done your research and want to learn more.
3. For the first interviews: what is my salary?
Whether on the website, in the job posting, or during the interview, many companies detail the salary range and benefits they offer.
While it’s important to ask about pay rates and benefits, there’s actually a better time to do it. During your first interview, focus on questions that show you’re passionate about the job and that you’re not just in it for the money.
“We really want to focus on the nature of the role to be filled, and not necessarily on compensation and parental leave, at least during the first meeting,” argues Valerie Rector. Of course, if you need more explanation as you go through the interview process, ask questions and understand that the hiring manager may need time after the interview to provide you with the good information.
“Questions about compensation aren’t bad to ask. But sometimes we have to take time, chat, clarify what we can offer and make sure candidates understand the answer,” adds Sue Swan.
Source: ZDNet.com