Job Search / Job Seeker’s Must-Ask Interview Questions

Interviewers want and expect you to have questions. It shows that you’re interested in the opportunity, not just the paycheck.

Here’s a list of five must-ask interview questions, each followed by an explanation of why you must ask it, and what you want and don’t want to hear in reply.

1. What created the need to fill this position?

Why it’s a must-ask: The answer will tell you whether it’s a vacated or newly created position, which can indicate whether the company is growing or holding steady.

What you want to hear: That it’s a new position because the business is growing, sales are up, or they’re launching a new project and need the expertise you can provide.

2. What do you feel are the key skills required to succeed in this job?

Why it’s a must-ask: The people who conduct job interviews are not always the same ones who write the job descriptions.

What you want to hear: Specific skills or qualities that the interviewer is seeking.

3. What are the three biggest challenges I would face in the first six months?

Why it’s a must-ask: The question itself tells the interviewer you’re serious about the job and want to succeed.

What you want to hear: Challenges that seem positive and reasonable, and that give you confidence you can meet them.

4. What has to happen in the first six months to convince you that you’ve hired the right person?

Why it’s a must-ask: The answer can help you determine how critical the position is to the company.

What you want to hear: Realistic short-term expectations that give you a chance to prove your value, thus helping you move toward your long-term career goals.

5. How does this position relate to the achievement of the boss’s (or department’s, or company’s) goals?

Why it’s a must-ask: The answer will tell you whether this is a critical position in the company that helps fulfill a key financial goal, enhance market position, or provide valuable support.

What you want to hear: It depends on what you want out of the job.

Chosen excerpts by Job Market Monitor

via Must-Ask Interview Questions | Pongo.