The top questions to ask in a job interview
Most businesses use a multi-stage recruitment process to find the people who are the best for the positions they are trying to fill in. As a job applicant, the whole process can often be stressful however, that does not mean that you should not take advantage of the interview stage to ask some important questions about the positions you are applying to. Always remember that much like a business is trying to find the best candidate for a job, you are also trying to find the perfect job for your life and skills. To assist you with finding the most important questions to ask during the interview stage we have created a comprehensive list of some of the most important questions you will want to consider asking during the interview.
- What is the work environment and company culture like?
Every company is slightly different when it comes to their company culture, just like every person is slightly different when it comes to the way that they like to work. This is why knowing a bit about how daily interactions, expectations, and the general work environment are can be important. You can also follow this question up by asking more about the expectations in your particular position and the style of work that they are looking for. This will help you determine whether this company is a good fit or not.
- What are the advancement and mobility opportunities?
Having a clear idea about what other opportunities are available in the company that you are recruited in can be incredibly important. You never want to be stuck in a position that offers no opportunities for advancement to a higher position or if it is important to you, mobility to their other offices. Most companies will have clear standards for advancement and mobility and should be able to give you a general idea of what the company culture on these two things is like.
- What benefit packages are part of this position?
Depending on where you are, different companies will offer health insurance packages or pension packages to their employees. If for example, having an employer that matches pension contributions is important to you, then you will want to keep that in mind and ask questions relating to that. As a follow-up question, you can also ask about the company policy regarding vacation and sick days. All of these factors are can be important in your decision to accept an offer or not.
- Are there any bonus plans associated with this position?
This will sometimes be included in the job description, so in some cases, you may want to avoid this question. But if nothing related to bonus plans is mentioned in the job description you may want to ask during the interview so as to get a clearer idea of what is offered with this position.
For more info on the interview stage and tips on how to make a great first impression recommended you read.