Questions to Ask After an Interview

At the end of most interviews, the interviewer will give you an opportunity to ask questions. This is an important part of the interview because it gives you a chance to demonstrate your interest in both the position and the company.

It is therefore a good idea to prepare a few questions before the interview. You can do this while researching the company, its industry, and the position you have applied for.

Make Your Questions Count

The questions you ask should demonstrate that you are genuinely interested in the position and that you are thinking about how you can contribute to the organisation.

Try to avoid questions that focus mainly on your personal needs and preferences, particularly during an initial interview. For example:

• How much leave will I get in a year?
• Will I be considered for promotion in my first year?
• When will I get a salary increase?
• What time can I leave in the afternoon?

Questions like these may be inappropriate at this stage and could raise concerns for the interviewer. If you are successful, most of this information will be explained in your letter of appointment or during the employment process.

Instead, use this opportunity to demonstrate your interest in the role, the department, and the organisation.

Questions for Entry-Level or Junior Positions

If you are applying for an entry-level or relatively junior position, your questions should help you understand the role and show that you are interested in becoming a productive member of the team.

For example, you could ask:

• Why did the previous person leave the position?
• What would the successful candidate be expected to do on a typical day?
• How does this position fit into the department and the wider company?
• Could you explain the structure of the company or department?
• Does the company provide assistance or support for further education and professional development?

These questions can help you gain a better understanding of the position while demonstrating that you are thinking beyond simply getting the job.

Questions for Senior Positions

If you are applying for a more senior position, your questions should be more strategic and focused on the challenges and expectations associated with the role.

Consider preparing questions around areas such as:

Current Challenges

Ask about the major issues or challenges that the successful candidate will be expected to address.

Interpersonal Challenges

Find out whether there are important team, leadership, or communication challenges within the department.

Processes, Technology, and People

Ask whether there are any significant process, technology, staffing, or organisational challenges that require urgent attention.

Key Results and Priorities

Ask about the key results expected from the successful candidate and which priorities will require immediate attention during the first few months.

These types of questions can demonstrate that you are already thinking about the responsibilities of the position and how you could contribute to solving important organisational challenges.

Prepare Before the Interview

Do not wait until you are sitting in the interview to think of questions. Prepare several questions beforehand based on your research into the company and the position.

You may not have time to ask all of them, so choose the ones that are most relevant to the conversation. You should also listen carefully during the interview, as some of your prepared questions may already be answered.

Remember, the questions you ask are another opportunity to demonstrate your interest, preparation, and understanding of the role.

Prepare well, ask thoughtful questions, and use the opportunity to show your value.

Good luck with your interview!