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Five Great Questions To Ask In Any Job Interview

By Annette Lewis

An interview is a two way process, a conversation and as an interviewer, I pay close attention to the questions that the candidate asks me during the interview.

My experience shows that this says a lot about how interested they are in the role and how committed they are to winning the job.

For example if no questions are asked, I have to wonder if maybe the applicant has just come along for some interview practice and are not attracted to the job. In this situation I would be less likely to make an offer as I would imagine that the chances of rejection are high.

For me, a winning candidate is one who asks timely, intelligent and relevant questions throughout the interview.

They involve me in a discussion and come across as genuinely interested in the job and in the organization. This will not only demonstrate interest but will allow them to gather information vital to helping decide if the job is right for them.

Sample Questions to Ask in An Interview

I always give the candidate an opportunity to ask questions usually towards the end of the interview.

Here are five questions to ask in an interview that always show me that that a candidate is serious about the role are:

1. How do you see me best contributing to the role with the experience and skills that I have got?

2. What is the most urgent task or problem you would like me to solve?

3. Can you tell me about the organizations plans to expand?

4. Can you talk me through the organizational structure?

5. How would you describe the culture of the company?

All of these questions show that the interviewee is interested in the role and the organization, wants to find out more and above all are keen to know how secure the organization is.

This suggests to me that the candidate is thinking about their own needs now and in the future and are wondering whether my company can meet those needs.

All Your Questions Answered?

As a candidate, you may find that all of your questions were answered during the interview itself and this is fine. In this situation, a good answer is one which also clearly shows your interest in the job:

"I did have some questions coming into the interview especially in relation to ____________. I'm pleased that you have answered all of them and you have given me enough information to confirm that this is job and organization is perfect for me."

For a full list of questions to ask in an interview and those to avoid visit InterviewGOLD our unique online interview course which has helped thousands of candidates land great jobs.

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About the Author

Annette Lewis is an accredited interviewer and has recruited for many organizations within Healthcare, Education, Customer Services and Banking

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