Key Questions to Ask Potential Employers at a Job Interview
Employers are not just looking for qualified candidates to fill their job vacancies. They also want to see drive, enthusiasm and initiative. Having a carefully formulated list of questions during a job interview will impress potential employers and will help set candidates apart from all the others, who may be equally qualified, but not as well prepared with questions to ask. The job search will be much more successful if candidates think ahead to the job interview and how their performance will impact their chances of success. Here are some typical questions that job candidates should consider asking.
1. Could you describe a typical work day?
This is a very important question and one that will show the employer you are serious about the job by seeking to find out about the daily routine. Have a notebook handy to jot down the hours you would be working and the responsibilities you will be entrusted with. If the answers are not to your liking, then this can help you to decide whether this job is really right for you. Advertisements may not always meet with your expectations once you attend the job interview. This is as much for the job candidate’s benefit as it is the employer’s. I once found myself in this situation and decided then and there that the job would not be right for me, so I discussed this with the employer and I terminated the rest of the interview, as it would have been a waste of my time and theirs to continue.
Candidates who ask about training or education are the sort of potential employees that will be an asset to the company. They are showing that they want to be fully prepared for the job and are willing to undergo further training if necessary to get the job and keep it.
3. What are the opportunities for advancement in this job?
This is closely linked in with #2. Job candidates who are already asking about career advancement are forward thinkers and not just looking into this as a short term, temporary position. Longevity is something that is highly prized by employers.
4. What personal qualities are required to be successful in this job?
This question shows the employer that the candidate wants to be able to fit in well and make a good impression with the colleagues and contribute to the success of the company’s work ethic.
5. What advice would you give to someone entering this field?
Employers would love to give out advice about jobs on offer in their companies. But not everyone takes the time to actually ask! This shows drive and a willingness to ask for and receive advice that could make a difference in their job performance. It is far better to enter a new job with your eyes wide open rather than having to find your own way. Asking for the employer’s advice is the way to achieve a smooth transition into the job.
Job candidates who are prepared with a list of questions to ask employers will feel more confident and in control of the interview. It will be more of a two way process, rather than simply passively absorbing information from the employer. Even if candidates are unsuccessful, they can learn from their mistakes and endeavour not to repeat their mistakes in future.
