Questions to ask in an interview

When called for an interview, you probably start preparing for it in the best way you possibly know how to. We wrote a blog on The New Age Interview Process that might help you do this.

Try to not get caught up with the nerves and the tension of trying to answer perfectly, and don’t forget to ask insightful questions. Asking your interviewer questions may improve your chances of getting the job, and give you a better understanding of what type of work environment you will be getting into.

Try avoid asking the generic, boring and obvious questions; questions that you would have found the answers to from the company’s website. Try to stay away from questions like “What’s your mission and vision?”. Rather quote an interesting thing from their mission and vision and then ask what inspired them to come to this.

Most importantly: Remember that interviews are a two-way street. Please feel free (in fact we encourage it) to ask any question when given the opportunity to, to determine if this is the right move for you. The interview process is a two-way street and it’s important to prioritize enjoyment as well as employment.

We also suggest doing as much research as you can about the company and the role that they may be interviewing you for. Employers also look favourably on candidates who have done their research and know a bit about the company they’re interviewing for. We’ve suggested some questions you could ask below. Pay attention to what you’re asked/told so that you don’t ask about information you already have.  Feel free to use some of these questions in your interviews – don’t ask all of them, but maybe have 5 ready.

Here are the questions:

• What are the top three action items you would need me to take on and accomplish in my first thirty days?
• What would you want to see me accomplish in the first six months?
• What did you have in mind as the “ideal candidate” for this position, and how do I compare?
• How would you measure my success, and what could I do to exceed your expectations?
• Can you give me an example of how I would be expected to collaborate with anyone else in the [Insert company name] team to best perform the job?
• What opportunities will I have to learn and grow?
• How do you anticipate your team growing over time?
• How do you help your team grow professionally?
• Would I have the opportunity to meet with individuals in the team that I’d be working with during the interview process?
• What tools would be made available for me to best perform in the job? (Laptop, dongle, cellphone, software tools, etc)?
• Will there be measurable key performance indicators to indicate success and if so, do you have an idea of what these will be?
• What are some of the challenges or roadblocks one might come up against in this role?
• Would you mind elaborating on the day-to-day responsibilities of this role?
• Do you have any questions or concerns about me being able to meet your expectations? I am open to constructive feedback and would be happy to discuss.
• What is your timeline to make a decision, and when can I expect to hear back from you?

Remember to be calm, listen attentively, try to speak slowly if you get nervous and don’t sound too rehearsed.

Good luck!