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So, you’ve got a great resume and feel comfortable about the rest of your interview preparation, but aren’t sure what job interview questions to ask your interviewer. This topic is a little loaded as it depends on the interview and employer industry, but there are a few universal questions you probably want to ask prior to ending the interview and going your separate ways.

What is Your Ideal Candidate?

I like this question because it forces the interviewer to show their hand a little. Based off of their response and body language, you can get a better indication of where you stand.

When Would you Like the Chosen Applicant to Start?

You need to know this, so that you know when you might need to leave your current job. You can go ahead and starting grooming a successor and make sure all of your work is up to date for a transition.

When Will you Make a Decision and When Will you Tell the Chosen Applicant?

This is important because it lets you know when to expect an answer. This allows you to have some idea when you’ll need to evaluate other offers by and some idea of how much notice the new employer expects you to give your old employer (when compared to the start date).

If you’re a manager or executive, you’ll most likely need more time than others to perform an adequate hand off. Make sure to discuss this with your interviewer and make it clear what your expectations are for notice at your current job.

What are the Scheduled Hours?

Many job postings will say this, but if they don’t, you need to ask and make sure the hours work with the rest of your life. If they don’t, find out if there is room for negotiation.

Does the Company Provide Opportunities for Continuing Education, Certifications, Cross Training, Mentoring, etc.?

This is one I always ask because I want to know that there are opportunities for growth. There is nothing more deflating than working at a job knowing that no matter how hard you work, you won’t be able to get ahead.

Have I Said Anything in This Interview or Given You Any Other Reason to Doubt That I am a Good Fit for the Role?

I like to ask this question because it puts the interviewer off-balance. This encourages the interviewer to acknowledge whether you are a good fit and gives you a chance to clear up any confusion or concerns the interviewer may have prior to leaving the interview.

Conclusion

Asking questions of your interviewer and future employer at a job interview is crucial because it shows that you’re interested, prepared, and provides you and your employer more information to use in making a selection.

For a more thorough Job Interview Preparation Guide, please click here.

What questions do you ask your interviewer at job interviews?

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