As I transition into a normal, boring, civilian life (just kidding), I often have to think about things that never occurred to me while serving my country. Immediately, most of the questions that I face are during interviews, and then after, when I am grilling myself on my performance.
One question that often stands out both during and after the interview is, ‘Do you have any questions for us?’ I am stumped every time. What do I ask? What should I know? What should I want to know? What does the request for leave packet look like? Do I need a briefing before leaving the country? Nope, none of these. Apparently, it is a good idea to ask the people interviewing you for a potential role, about the company that they want to bring you into. Apparently, this can be a determining factor of whether you are seriously interested as a candidate, and them as the company.
Why would I ask anything?
When you’re being interviewed for a job, asking insightful questions not only shows your interest in the job but also helps you determine if the job and company are a good fit for you. As stated in previous articles, whether or not your morals, values, and lifestyle parallel the company you want to work for can have a huge impact on your fulfillment of that job. Here are some questions you might consider asking:
About the Role
Can you describe the day-to-day responsibilities of this job?
What are the key skills and qualities you’re looking for in a candidate?
How do you evaluate success in this role?
What are the immediate challenges the new hire would need to address?
What does the onboarding process look like?
About the Team
Can you tell me about the team I’ll be working with?
How does this team fit into the overall structure of the company?
How does the team typically collaborate and communicate?
About the Company Culture
How would you describe the company culture?
What are the company’s core values, and how are they implemented in everyday work?
Can you share some examples of how the company supports professional development?
How does the company prioritize work-life balance?
About Career Growth
What opportunities for advancement are available within the company?
How does the company support employees in achieving their career goals?
What has been the career path of others who have held this position?
About Challenges and Expectations
What are the biggest challenges facing the company/department right now?
What are the expectations for this role in the first 30, 60, and 90 days?
What are the next steps in the interview process?
About the Company’s Future
Where do you see the company in the next five years?
What are the company’s plans for growth?
How does the company stay ahead of industry trends?
Asking the questions puts the right foot forward
These questions will help you gather valuable information to make an informed decision and demonstrate your proactive approach. Asking these questions will ensure that the interviewer knows that you have paid attention during the session, but also that you are invested in the opportunity if presented.
Ask one or two, or consider more, but you will see a different side of your interviewer when you start to ask them questions about the company. They will see you not only as inquisitive, but as curious, as hungry, and ready to be a part of the company.
