Interviewee or Interviewer – in a Successful Interview, Both
Interviews give employers the opportunity to scout for clues about your interest in the role and insights into how you think. Being prepared with well-considered and thoughtful questions will make you stand out and ultimately, land the right job for you.
Not having any questions to ask in an interview can be seen as a red flag. It may be interpreted as a lack of planning, critical thinking, or interest in the position. You also miss the opportunity to interview your prospective employer and ensure the job is a good fit for you.
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Get prepared with these top questions to ask in an interview and let the hiring team know you’re a candidate, not just another applicant.
Top Tip #1: Interviews are a two-way street. Asking questions to ensure the opportunity is right for you is the best way to get the right fit for both parties.
1. What do you like most about working here?
This question allows the interviewer to open up and talk about their personal experience. Not only do you get genuine first-person insights into the workplace, it can also build a rapport with the interviewer.
2. How is success measured in this role?
This will help you determine if the organisation and manager are clear about what success looks like, and if this matches your expectations. It also signals that you intend to excel in the role.
3. What makes your top performers successful?
You can gain deeper insights into the role and culture by learning how current employees contribute to the team, their associated skills, experience, and attributes.
4. Why did this position become available?
Is it a newly created role or replacing a person who has left? This can help determine if you will find the opportunity enjoyable or frustrating. Will you thrive in a greenfield environment? You may also find clues about staff turnover and company culture issues. Additionally, if internal applicants were unsuccessful, you’ll be ready to win your team over.
5. How do you support the professional development of your staff?
Demonstrating your interest in learning and development will allow you to assess the extent to which the organisation invests in its staff.
Top Tip #2: Although it is important to know how much you will be paid, we recommend focussing on questions that will help you learn more about:
- The interviewer / hiring manager
- The role
- The organisation
- The culture
6. What am I expected to deliver in the next 6 and 12 months?
It is essential to ensure expectations are clear and realistic and that you know what your priorities will be.
7. What changes, challenges, or new initiatives are on your organisation’s roadmap?
Successful organisations constantly evolve and adapt. This question provides insights into the company’s strategy and minimises any major surprises when you start.
8. How do you differ from your competitors?
This question tells you about the company’s market position, if they are set up for ongoing success, and provides clues about the strength of the leadership direction and strategy.
9. How does your team describe your management style?
You know the saying, “People leave managers, not jobs”. Use this question to ensure the management style aligns with how you work best. It’s a red flag if a potential manager struggles to articulate a response. They lack self-awareness or haven’t received positive feedback about their leadership abilities.
10. How does the team work together and collaborate?
This question helps you learn more about the company culture as it requires a detailed and specific response. Take note of whether the response highlights how they use technology, or their maturity in managing hybrid teams.
11. What makes people stay?
The answer reveals a lot about how the company values people. The benefits and culture highlighted will help you determine if it’s a good workplace for you.
12. Are there any concerns you have about my application?
If you detect some hesitation from the interviewer about your suitability for the role, you have less to lose by bringing this up. But use your best judgment if you ask this question. Some interviewers may feel put on the spot and uncomfortable, while others will appreciate your directness. Just make sure you’re prepared to address any concerns raised.
13. What are the key things I should know about working here?
If you are running out of time or want to cover all bases, you can put the onus on the interviewer to highlight the benefits and challenges you should know about.
Top Tip #3: It is unlikely you will have the opportunity to ask all of these questions. We suggest you select the top 3-5 that are most important to you. You can follow up on any questions at the next stage of the hiring process – including the all important question about remuneration.
Clicks is an award-winning IT recruitment specialist. Our team averages 12 years of industry experience, and we’re on over 80 Preferred Supplier Agreements. As Australia’s IT favourite recruiter, we help candidates find great opportunities and clients find great people each day.
For advice on other job-seeking topics, check out the resources we’ve put together to help you land your next role. If you are on the market for your next IT opportunity, review our job board to see all of our current vacancies. We also have a fantastic referral program that can earn you $500 for every great person you send our way.
