Turning the Tables on the Interviewer

At the conclusion of nearly every interview, interviewers are likely to ask if you have any questions. Let’s not sugar-coat it- this is a test! The questions you ask will inform the interviewer about you as much as previous questions they have asked you. So just like you would prepare your answers, come prepared with questions to highlight your knowledge, enthusiasm and motivation to secure the job. 

Here are some suggestions for the kinds of questions you could ask:

1. What do you consider the essential qualities to become successful in this position?

This question highlights to the interviewer that you are interested in achieving your best and demonstrates you must also possess the drive and commitment in pursuing success. It also demonstrates a genuine interest in understanding what the organisation views as success. What organisation wouldn’t value a candidate who strives for success?

2. What experiences and skills would represent an ideal candidate for you?

This question will encourage your interviewer to pin point the key qualities and experience they are looking for in an ideal candidate. This gives you an opportunity to remind them of any skills or experience you didn’t mention during the interview.

3. Are there opportunities for training and education in this position?

This question shows your drive for learning, which is an invaluable quality in a candidate. It also demonstrates your willingness to expand your knowledge and grow with the employer which is great news for them if they are going to invest time and money in your development and training (hint hint-retention).

4. What are the organisations plans for growth?

This question allows you to add an observation or two that reflects the extensive research you conducted prior to the interview. This will give you a final opportunity to impress the interviewer about your knowledge and interest in the organisation which shows promising signs of commitment. It is also important for you to understand where the organisation is heading and whether you can envision yourself becoming part of their strategy.

5. What can I expect in the next stage of the recruitment process?

The ideal question to finish up with! This question shows you are aware of the complexities and often time consuming process of recruitment- but also indicates to the interviewer you are keen to progress and move forward to the next stage. You may even be able to gauge how many others they are interviewing for the position or how close they are to securing their ideal candidate!