You spent hours scouring the internet for all the information you could find about the company in question. You have written and memorized all the questions they might ask you. You even carefully put together your outfit. Preparing for a job interview? check. Everything should go perfectly until there is room for your questions. Wait, do you have any questions?
Preparing for a job interview: you should ask these questions
It has happened to all of us at one time or another that we were so focused on the questions that would be fired at us that we completely forgot to think about what we wanted to know. That’s why here are six questions to ask a (potential) future employer, which also make you seem interested.
What does a typical day look like in this position?
You may know what the position entails globally, but vacancies often only paint a general picture. Ask for a more detailed job description to get a good idea of what you would be doing daily and how the company functions.
Who would I work with directly?
You probably have the interview with the person you would be working for, but it’s also helpful to know how you fit into the bigger picture. Does the position require a lot of communication with other departments, or do you work in a specific team?
Do you depend on others to perform your job well, or do you often work independently?
What is the essential skill you need to be successful?
You have the feeling that they are looking for someone with a whole laundry list of skills, while you know that they will never find it all in one person. Of course, please speak four languages and program and understand marketing, but how realistic will they find someone with all those qualities?
Therefore, instead of focusing on your flaws, focus on what is essential to know whether you will perform the function well.
Why do you enjoy working here?
You spend a large part of your life at work, so you must have a good time there. The attitude of your colleagues not only says a lot about the atmosphere within the company but also about their attitude to work. After all, you don’t want to work between people who are sulking all day.
How would you describe the culture of this company?
Of course, a job interview is meant to determine whether you would be a good fit for a company, but it is also an excellent opportunity to feel for yourself whether the company is a good fit for you. You can still enjoy your job, but you will never feel entirely at home there if the company culture does not match your values.
What are the next steps in the interview process?
Before the end of the conversation, make sure you know what’s going to happen. Are there any other candidates? How and when do they let you know if you’re through? Will there be a second conversation? This way, you avoid constantly checking your e-mail for a week and coming across as interested.
