Rehearsal is an
integral part of interview preparation as it helps candidates build the
confidence needed to answer the questions interviewers will be asking and gets
the conversation off on the right foot to show employers the candidate is right
for the position. However, one aspect of interview preparation that candidates
often overlook is the fact that the interview is not only for the hiring
manager: candidates are there to answer questions but are also there to ask
them.
When candidates asks
the right questions during an interview, it presents them with the opportunity
to get a real feel for the company and determine if it is a place at which they
really want to work. It is also an opportunity to reaffirm their interest in
the company and be sure the interviewer has no reservations about the qualifications
they have already presented.
Next time you are in
need of a little preparation for an interview, take these questions into
consideration. Think about how might you incorporate these into the discussion
so that you get a good feel for the company and add a little enthusiasm to your
interview.
·
Could you please describe
the general culture of the workplace and that of your team?
·
How does the project your
department is working on fit into the overall business strategy?
·
Outside of the specific
functions we have already discussed, what other functions does your team
perform?
·
Would you tell me about
some of the biggest challenges and successes for the department?
·
If hired, what kind of
position would I be in to solve a problem you are having?
·
How will you be
evaluating my performance and are there any ways that I can ensure a successful
performance?
·
Will there be opportunity
for me to get additional training from the company?
Some questions, like
those about benefits or salary, can easily turn an interview the wrong way.
Choose the ones that show your interest, back your qualifications and help you
to better understand the company, and avoid those that are overly ambitious or
make you seem desperate for a position. Leave the salary and benefits
discussion until you are offered a position.
Good luck!