23+ Questions to Ask an Interviewer [in 2023]
If you don’t prepare meaningful questions to ask an interviewer, you risk the hiring manager assuming you aren’t interested in or serious about the job. So take advantage of the opportunity to prove yourself when the interviewer asks, “Do you have any questions for me?” It’s the best way to determine whether the job is a good fit for you and whether you share the same values as your potential employer.
Table of Contents
- Good questions to ask an interviewer about the position
- Questions to ask about training and professional development
- Top questions to ask an interviewer about the company
- Questions to ask an interviewer about the team
- Questions for the interviewer about the next steps
- Interview questions you should never ask
23 smart questions to ask at the end of your next job interview
These killer interview questions will help you out in more ways than one. You can either weave them into the conversation or use them at the end of the interview.
Good questions to ask an interviewer about the position
- What tasks does a typical day/week consist of in this position?
This will give you an idea of what your schedule may look like in the future. Moreover, it will reveal if benefits like flexible hours or home office are available. - What skills are most needed in this position?
You may find that your skills do not align with the needs of the position. It is obviously better to know this before you accept the position than to struggle on the job - What are the current priorities to focus on in this position?
Finding out the priorities will make it easier for you to perform with efficiency and meet goals. - How will you measure my success in this position?
Companies measure success through sales volumes, revenue, and many other factors. Finding this out will subsequently give you an idea of what to focus on. - What are some of the challenges one may face in this position?
Every position comes with its hardships. Use this opportunity to discuss how you would tackle these challenges based on your experience.
Questions to ask about training and professional development
- Are you looking to hire someone with all the required skills, or do you offer employee training?
Many companies are willing to train their employees to fit the requirements. In other words, this means you have a chance even if your current skills do not align with the needs of the company. - What type of training or education does the company offer?
Many companies offer their employees professional training or free education. Take these benefits into consideration when choosing your job. - Will I be able to represent the company at public events?
Try to inquire about employee representation. This will, in turn, will give you an idea of the company hierarchy. - Where have the individuals who held this position before progressed to?
This will reveal whether there is room for growth within the company. Apart from this, it will also show how long people usually stay in one position.
Top questions to ask an interviewer about the company
- What are the goals the company is currently striving to achieve?
Showing interest in the success of the company will prove that you are ready to support the goals. - What types of employees are successful within the company?
Some companies prefer entrepreneurial personalities, while others look for team-oriented employees. Fitting in with the rest of the employees will make your work more enjoyable. - What is the company culture like?
Finding out whether the company is formal or relaxed will make it easier for you to decide if you are the right fit. - How and when do employees receive feedback?
Feedback is crucial for you to be able to improve. Thus, try and find out in what form and how often you and your team will receive feedback from our superiors. - What do you like most about working here?
Although this is one of the simple interview questions, it can tell you a lot about the company. Moreover, it can make you memorable because the interviewer will have to think of his own experience before answering.
Questions to ask an interviewer about the team
- What can you tell me about the team I will be working with?
The size and age of your team may affect your experience. Thus, try to find out as much as you can. - What are the biggest strengths and challenges of my team?
You may find that your skills complement the weaknesses of your team. This could be a great benefit. - What are the biggest communication challenges between departments?
If you have experience working in teams, try to think of solutions to these challenges. Subsequently, discuss your ideas with the interviewer to show initiative and creative thinking. - Who will I be reporting to?
While some companies have a set hierarchy, some prefer all employees to communicate. Finding out about your superiors can give you a better idea of the communication model. - Which departments will I teamwork with?
This can give you a better idea of the tasks that you will be working on. Moreover, it will prepare you for the expected level of cooperation with other teams.
Questions for the interviewer about next steps
- Is there anything about my experience and skills that concerns you?
This is one of the boldest job interview questions, but it can undoubtedly be beneficial. You can calm any concerns the interviewer may have and explain any misunderstandings. - What steps should I take next?
Let the interviewer explain what is coming next in the hiring process. Moreover, listen to how you may increase your chances, and when to contact them again. - Can I provide any other information that may be useful to you?
This is to ensure that the interviewer has everything they need to make the right decision. - What is the timeline for the hiring process?
To avoid checking your emails every hour, ask about the timeline of the hiring process. This way, you will know when to expect a reply, and when it is relevant to contact the hiring manager again.
Interview questions you should never ask
- How often will my performance be reviewed?
Although you might simply be interested in the company’s feedback on your performance, it’s best to leave this question out. Otherwise, it may sound like you are concerned or want to avoid receiving negative feedback, which is a red flag for any hiring manager. - When will I be able to get a promotion or a raise??
While you may think this question proves you are ambitious, it could hurt your chances. Generally, you should be focusing more on what you can do for the company. Save questions about benefits and promotions until after you have been offered the job. - Why were so many people fired from the company recently??
This is a fair question, but you should only bring it up once you’ve been offered the job. At that point, you can ask your manager about any concerning layoffs and whether a headcount reduction was a one-time event or an ongoing process. - Will I have to work in a team? Could I work remotely??
Unless the position you’re applying for is listed as remote, asking this question can make it seem like you’re not interested in engaging with your team. Instead, try asking about work culture and work-life balance to get the answer without raising any red flags. - How much vacation will I get??
Bringing up vacation time might make it seem like you’re more interested in time off than the actual job. So, while it might be an essential factor in your decision process, wait until you receive the job offer. There, it should clearly state the benefits and vacation. - Can I get my own office?
This question could get uncomfortable for both you and the hiring manager. Of course, it might play some role in your decision. But, if having your own office is the central aspect of your job search, you might want first to rethink your priorities.
Asking the right job interview questions can be beneficial. Yet, there are some common questions that you should avoid.
Remember: Stay away from asking personal questions. While asking about the company culture and team is great, avoid asking about gossip or rumors you heard. Moreover, avoid using questions to sell yourself. Your job interview questions are not the place for you to pitch yourself to the hiring manager. Last but not least, don’t bring up the money too soon. Without a doubt, salary is an important aspect of every job. Even so, avoid asking about it too early or aggressively. This may make it seem like you care about the money more than the position itself.
In the end, it is most important to ask about what you want to know. Think about the basic aspects of the job that are important to you. Then, use the interview to find out if the job aligns with your values and priorities. Asking powerful, creative job interview questions can help you in many ways. First, it can make you stand out in the eyes of the interviewer. Second, it can help you decide whether you are the right fit for the job. Thus, don’t be afraid to ask your questions. Your hiring manager will, without a doubt, be more than happy to give you all the answers you may need.
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