Why You Must End an Interview With Questions
Almost every job interview will end with the same question from the interviewer. Yet many candidates make the same mistake when answering it. The common question asked by the interviewer is, “Do you have any questions for me?” Your answer may make or break your chances of getting the job. It’s surprising how many people still reply, “Nope!”
Not having any questions at the end of an interview is a huge mistake. So, before your interview, do your research and come prepared with questions that will help you decide if the role/company is the right fit for you.
Questions to Ask at the End of a Job Interview
At the end of a job interview, almost every interviewer provides you with the opportunity to ask questions. So, it’s important that you come prepared with at least three questions that express your interest. This will also show them that you’ve done your homework and researched the company in advance. Below we share some of the best questions you can ask at the end of an interview:
Company-Specific Questions
The following questions relate directly to the company itself and are helpful to ask in any type of job interview.
How do you see this company evolving over the next five years?
This question tells the interviewer that you’re interested in the future of the company and how your professional growth will align with the company’s projected growth.
How would you describe the company’s culture?
Asking this question shows the interviewer that you care about finding the right cultural fit in your next position.
What is your favorite thing about working for this company?
Asking about your interviewer’s personal experience will give you insight into the company’s culture, and the benefits of working there.
What’s one of the most interesting projects you’ve worked on here?
By asking for a specific example, you may be able to get a better idea of how each role’s function contributes to the overarching company objectives.
What qualities or attributes usually make for a successful employee in this company?
This question shows the interviewer that you’re determined to succeed and that you want to ensure you’ll be a good fit.
What are the biggest challenges the company is facing right now?
Asking about challenges can tell you how the company is faring among current trends and concerns in the industry, which also can identify areas where your skills could be put to good use.
How is the company addressing these challenges?
The interviewer’s answer can provide additional insights into the company’s ambitions and could organically lead to other questions.
What do you think encourages employees to stay at this company?
This question can help you get a broader sense of the company’s culture, its values, how employees see the company and how you’ll fit in.
Role-Specific Questions
The following questions are specific to the role you’re interviewing for:
Can you elaborate on the day-to-day responsibilities of this job?
This question can clarify the different aspects of the role, especially if it’s a cross-functional position or is part of a team. You’ll hopefully gain a better understanding of the job responsibilities which will help you decide if it is the right job for you.
Who would I be reporting to?
You should know what you’re going into and what to expect – you may have one boss or many.
What do you think is the most challenging aspect of the job?
This gives you an idea of what to expect and shows that you are aware that the role will have challenges.
What do you think are the most important qualities for the person in this role to possess in order to have success?
The answer to this question can provide valuable information that’s not listed in the job description.
What soft skills are needed to serve the company and position best?
The skills held important to the company can give you more insight into the culture and its management values, which gives you a better opportunity to decide whether you would fit in.
What are your expectations for this role during the first 30 to 90 days?
It’s important to find out what will be expected of you if you were to be hired into this position. The more you know about the expectations and metrics for success, the easier it will be to tailor your qualifications to demonstrate your fit for the role.
How do you evaluate success?
Knowing how the company measures success will help you understand what it would take to advance in your career.
Is there a ‘typical’ career path for someone in this role?
The answer can tell you if the company promotes from within. Plus, asking this question shows your interest in growing with the organization.
Do you have any hesitations about my qualifications?
While this question puts you in a vulnerable position, it demonstrates that you have the confidence to address your weaknesses. Plus, their feedback can give you the opportunity to address any doubts the interviewer may have about you.
Wrap-up Questions
Below are great questions to close the interview:
What is your timeline and what are the next steps?
It is important to ask this question so you will know when and what to expect in the next steps of the interview process.
Do you need me to clarify or elaborate on anything regarding my suitability for the position?
Offering to provide greater detail on any of your answers or anything listed on your resume will certainly be appreciated by the interviewer.
Is there anything else I can provide to help you with your decision?
This is a nice way to make sure there is no uncertainty about anything that might affect your candidacy.
Final Tips for Asking Questions at the End of an Interview
By having questions prepared, it shows the interviewer that you cared enough to research the company and the position. Try following these final tips to ensure you’re asking the right questions:
- Ask open-ended questions that require more than a simple “yes” or “no,” but also avoid asking questions that are too broad to answer concisely.
- Keep the number of questions you ask to a maximum of three. However, it’s a good idea to have around 10 questions prepared so you can choose the most appropriate ones based on how the earlier interview conversation goes. (i.e. what questions remain)
- Don’t ask questions that anyone could answer with a quick glance at the company website. Instead, do some research and be a little strategic as you think about the company.
- Most important? Never ask a question that has already been answered during the interview.
- Lastly, hold off on asking about salary or benefits until you’re in the negotiation portion of the process with an HR representative.
Kinsa Group’s food industry recruiters and our broad network of food industry executives are always looking for top talent and we’d like to help you find the best opportunity to match your skills. Submit your resume today to secure your future.
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