CV Writing : CV Services : CV Online
CV Services (Home) >> Job Interviews >> Good Interview Questions To Ask
|
|
Good Interview Questions To Ask: We profile questions to ask at job interviews plus some useful questions for 2nd interviews...
It is important to ask questions at job interview to find out whether you are interested in the role. There are more general job interview questions to ask at the first interview, whereas more specific questions tend to be asked at second job interviews. Below is a list of job interview questions to ask and some 2nd job interview questions. We profile some of the most important job questions to ask at first or second interview. Benefit from Professional and Executive CV Writers: Professional CV Services |
JOB INTERVIEWS: Good interview questions to ask.
|
Remember a job interview is a two-way process. It is crucial to ask effective and well-targeted questions at interview. It serves a dual purpose by finding more information about the role and
company whilst showing a keen interest in the role or company. Asking good questions will also
help to make a good impression and show that you have done some research on the vacancy.
Winning CV lists possible questions to ask at interview and has broken them down into typical questions to ask at first and second interview. There is also consideration given towards the
offer of employment so you can get the most out any contract negotiations.

Asking Interview Questions: Always Ask Effective and Well-Targeted Questions - Effective preparation is key. |
Impress the interviewer & demonstrate that you are a worthwhile candidate.
Show professionalism, preparation & a genuine interest in the role.
Keep it simple. Only ask a limited number questions.
About The Company
Ask about interesting things that you have learnt about the company.
Ask about the long-term aspirations & future plans of the company.
Ask about the company culture
Important to get an insight as to the way things are done i.e. traditional office environment,
team-based, project focused, creative, sales-driven, target orientated, incentivised cultures, etc.
Ask for the interviewer's perspective
Ask why they enjoy working for this particular company (i.e. can give a greater insight).
Be sure they actually enjoy working for the company!
Clarifying the job description & role
Clarify the 'real' job description - employers will make roles appear more attractive!
Ask about responsibilities, reporting lines, who you would be dealing with, travel, etc.
Getting into the role
Ask about induction training - i.e. courses, some initial projects, job shadowing, etc.
Ask about performance reviews & appraisals. Important for regular feedback & to set
objectives with line managers.
Training & development
Ask about this to determine the emphasis towards investing in its people.
Also ask about chances for promotion, advancement and progression.
Other Questions
Ask why the vacancy has become available (can be revealing!).
Ask for an indication of likely starting salary / benefits (see if it is in line with your expectations).
Ask how they see you fitting within the company structure to benefit most from your skills.
About the Interview Process
Ask about the overall recruitment process & how long this will take (i.e. to plan your next steps).
Ask about further contact for additional questions (i.e. re-assert your interest in the role).
Find out when you are likely to hear the outcome of the interview.
Closing the interview - very important!
There should be clear positive intent & use it as one last opportunity to sell your skills & qualities.
You should also state what you want from the first interview (i.e. a second interview!).
To leave a positive impression and close the interview, you should summarise your experience, main skills and qualities in one sentance and then ask when you would be invited to attend a second interview (i.e. gives positive intent and states exactly what you want).
Clarify any areas of uncertainty regarding job description
Discuss specific details like proposed start dates, etc.
You can discuss pay, terms & conditions.
Link to: Salary Negotiation for advice.
JOB OFFERS | OFFER OF EMPLOYMENT |
Negotiating your offer of employment
Negotiate on terms of employment, pay, start date, location (re-location) & company benefits.
Implement advice from Salary Negotiation to optimise your bargaining potential.
Reviewing the detail
Review (finalise) job descriptions & terms of employment (contract). Go through everything thoroughly and ask for help if unsure. A lawyer, recruitment consultant or the Internet can assist with advice.
Other considerations
Ask if there are any other considerations (be thorough as it can have a major affect on your life!).
Accepting / Rejecting the offer of employment
Do not be rushed into a decision either way. Set clear expectationsof when to give a decision whilst considering any offer. Ensure employment offers are received in writing before committing to anything. Keep copies of any documentation (contract) for future reference and to be sure everything is clear.
More than one job offer!
Be honest by telling both employers of an important decision to choose between two job offers. Say that more time is required to consider both offers. Both employers should respect any request for more time. This can also strengthen any negotiating (bargaining) position and may lead to an improved job offer if either employer is determined to secure your services.
Writing an acceptance / decline letter
Having received an offer of employment in writing, check requirements to formally accept (or decline) any offer. Formally accept any offer in writing as well as any verbal acceptance.
At this point, there should be a clear understanding of the salary, start date, location, training, probationary period, commission, bonuses, etc. Check for any misunderstandings, omissions or errors. A good employer should come back quickly and resolve any issues.
Declining an offer must be done politely in case another offer falls through or should even wish to apply for another role with the same company in the future.