Most of the interview process consists of candidates answering a variety of questions posed by the interviewer. However, an important component of the interview is that final question a hiring manager may ask, “What can I answer for you?” This question can often throw candidates for a loop. They aren’t sure what to ask so they stumble around a bit before declaring they don’t have any questions for the interviewer.
In order to not be caught off guard by this question, prepare a list of questions specific to that position and opportunity. This portion of the interview is your chance to help determine if the position is right for you, but at the same time, you must continue to prove you are fit for the position.
Questions to ask relating to the Position
Asking questions about the position will not only highlight your interest to an interviewer, but allows you to further evaluate if the position and the company is a good match for your skills and interests.
- Questions about Specific Goals, Duties, and Requirements
- How would you describe the responsibilities of this position?
- How would you describe a typical day or week in this position?
- How will you measure the success of the person in this position?
- Questions about the Team
- Can you tell me about the team I will be working with?
- Who will I work with most closely? What other departments or units will I interact with?
- What types of skills is the team missing that you are looking to fill with a new hire?
- Questions about your Potential Manager
- How long have you been at the company?
- What is your favorite part about working here?
Questions to ask relating to the Company
It is important to understand what growth in your career will look like in a job. Asking questions about career paths and development will show that you are not only interested in the available position but pursuing a career at the company.
- Questions about the Company
- How would you describe the company’s values?
- What are the current goals the company is focused on and how does this team work to support hitting these goals?
- What are the company’s plans for growth and development?
- Questions about the Culture
- What do new employees typically find surprising after they start?
- What type of background do you feel would be best suited for success in this position?
- How do you typically onboard employees?
Questions to ask relating to the Future
It is important to understand what growth in your career will look like in a job. Asking questions about career paths and development will show that you are not only interested in the available position but pursuing a career at the company.
- Questions about Personal Development, Career Paths, and Future Opportunities
- What are common career paths in this department?
- What learning and development opportunities will I have in this position?
- How does the team I will be part of continue to grow professionally?
- Closing Questions
- Is there anything I can clarify for you about my qualifications?
- Is there anything else I can provide you with that would be helpful?
Questions to Avoid
Not only are these questions inappropriate and presumptuous, but they don’t shed you in a positive light with the interviewer. If these questions do come up, make sure you discuss them with the right representative at the company.
- What is the starting salary?
- Can you tell me about your health insurance?
- What are your paid leave policies?
- What does this company do?
- Can I change my schedule if I get the job?
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Annika Wanger is a Junior at Butler University studying Marketing, Applied Business Technology, and Data Science. She is currently interning in Singapore for Interviewer.AI during the summer of 2022. Besides work, she is very interested in traveling, reading, and cooking for family and friends as hobbies.
