Asking interviewers the right questions can draw their attention to your suitability for the role. | Freepik
TIFFANY UMAN
INTERVIEWS are a source of anxiety for most job-seekers. A moment of truth, if you will. Whether stemming from the pressure to make a good impression or the uncertainty of what questions will be asked, worrying about saying the wrong thing or forgetting what to say can get the best of even the most prepared candidates.
While it is essential to prepare answers for the questions you might be asked, it is equally important to think about the questions you can ask interviewers to solidify your candidacy for the role. Making the interview a two-way conversation not only helps you gather valuable information, it also demonstrates your genuine interest in the role - potentially reinforcing your fit within the company. It is also an opportunity for you to assess if this is the right place for you short-term and over the long run.
Asking the right questions also allows you to build better rapport with your interviewers and highlights your enthusiasm and curiosity. When done really well, it will also help the interviewers envision what having you in this role would be like; already giving them a strong sense of what they can truly expect in hiring you.
The last thing you want to do in an interview is to not ask any questions or ask generic questions that could be easily searched for on Google.
Here are four interview questions to ask that solidifies your candidacy:
What was it about my specific background that made you want to meet with me today?
This is a golden question because of how revealing it can be for you. It is definitely one you will want to ask right after they ask “How are you?” at the start of your interview - before you get into the infamous “Tell me about yourself” question.
Here is an example of how you can easily integrate it: “I am doing great and really excited to speak with you today regarding X role as it lines up so well with my career aspirations. I would also love to know, what was it about my specific background that made you want to meet with me today?"
This is where the interviewer will share exactly what intrigued them or drew them to you in the first place - giving you direct insight into what sets you apart from other candidates. You can then use this information to reinforce the most relevant examples and accomplishments you share in your other interview answers.
What are the top three traits found in your most successful leaders?
This question serves a dual purpose. First, it shows that you are keen to grow within the organisation and are already thinking a few steps ahead - enabling the interviewer to visualise you longer-term in the company. Every hiring manager knows it costs a lot less to retain and develop an existing employee than to recruit a new one, so this will play to your advantage if hired.
This question also provides clear insight into what the company values most in their highest performing leaders, and the types of factors they emphasise in grooming their talent for peak performance and results.
Furthermore, this question will help you gauge whether the company's leadership style and values align with your own - ensuring a good cultural fit.
What would be the difference between someone meeting versus exceeding your expectations in this role?
This question is perfect to gauge what the interviewers are actually looking for in their ideal candidate. It sets the tone for what will distinguish you in the role and what will be required from you to drive maximum impact.
Asking this question provides critical insights into the performance standards and key success factors for the position. At the same time, it also demonstrates your commitment to excellence and your desire to understand how you can go above and beyond in the role.
You can integrate this as a follow-up after a question like “Tell me about yourself” or “Walk me through your resume”. Here is an example of how you can go about it: “Having said that, what would make the difference between someone meeting versus exceeding your expectations in this role?”
Do you have any last hesitations or concerns regarding my ability to perform this role effectively?
This question often has a negative connotation as it is a bold and proactive one that can significantly influence the outcome of your interview.
Some may argue that asking this question at the end of an interview is a bad idea as it can lead to the interview ending on a sour note if you hear something negative in response. In reality, however, this question invites the interviewer to voice any lingering doubts they may have - giving you the opportunity to address and resolve them directly while you are still together. It shows your confidence, openness to feedback and commitment to ensuring a mutual fit.
In fact, avoiding asking this question will not mean the interviewers don’t have any negative thoughts about your candidacy. If you do not ask this, you will be depriving yourself of the opportunity to address a concern and shift the negative perception into a positive attribute regarding your ability to perform the role effectively.
* Uman is a career strategy coach and workplace expert