5 Questions Candidates Should Ask a Potential Employer

From the candidates’s perspective, one of the most important aspects of preparing for an interview is to have some well thought out questions to ask the potential employer.  Here are 5 “must ask” questions:

1) When you think about top performing employees at the company, what are some of the common characteristics that they have?

Carefully listen to the hiring manager’s response.  He/she may say things such as: team player, self-motivated, self starter, etc.  Then respond with practical examples of how you have demonstrated some or all of these characteristics.  By doing so, it will reinforce to the hiring manager that you have the same qualities that other successful employees have.

2) What might my career path be at the company over the next 5-10 years?

This is a good question because the hiring manager should be able to provide you with examples of possible future promotional opportunities within the company.  Also, by asking about the path over the next 5-10 years, it shows that you are thinking longer term and looking for a company that you will be with for many years to come.

3) Besides the responsibilities listed in the job description, are there any special projects or pressing issues that I might be involved in?

By asking this question, it shows that you are interested in assisting with other projects above and beyond the basic requirements of the position.  This will reinforce to the hiring manager that you are a team player and someone that can be relied on when special projects arise.

4) What are some of the biggest challenges facing the department and company as a whole?

This question will demonstrate that you are interested in understanding the “big picture”, rather than just the specific job for which you are interviewing.  Based on the hiring manager’s answer, try to respond with examples of how you might be able to apply your experience to address some of the challenges.

5) I am extremely interested in this position and feel as though I would be a great fit, do you have any hesitations about my qualifications?

You want to ask this question near the end of the interview.  By doing so, it first lets the hiring manager know that you are sincerely interested in position.  Secondly, it also allows you to address any potential concerns that the hiring manager might have about your experience and qualifications while you are face to face with him or her.

Of course, there are more questions that you ask during an interview.  If you invest the time to prepare well thought out questions prior your interview, the hiring manager will be impressed and you will increase the chances of landing the position!