A job interview is a two-way process

Remembering 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 of finding out 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 gives a comprehensive breakdown of 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.

                                                                                                            

Questions To Ask - Overview

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 & 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.

Negotiating your offer of employment

Negotiate on terms of employment, pay, start date, location (re-location) & company benefits.
Implement what you have learnt under Salary Negotiation to optimise your bargaining potential.

Reviewing the detail

Review / finalise job descriptions & terms of employment (contract).  Go through it thoroughly. 
Get someone else to review the contract if unsure or use other resources like the internet for help.

Other considerations

Ask if there are any next 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 expectations of when you will be able to take a decision by so it will give you time to consider the offer whilst not annoying the company.  Get any offers of employment in writing before committing yourself to anything.  Be careful, there are some devious employers out there! 

More than one job offer!

Be honest and tell both employers that you have an important decision to make to choose between two job offers.  Say that you need time to consider both offers and both employers should respect your request for more time.  This can also strengthen any negotiating / bargaining position and may lead to an improved job offer if an employer is determined to secure your services.

Writing an acceptance / decline letter

As you would have received an offer of employment in writing, you would be required for formally accept (or decline) any offer in writing. 

At this point you should convey your understanding of the key elements of the job offer such as salary, start date, location, training, probationary period, commission, bonuses, etc.  This will enable you to check for any possible misunderstandings.  A good employer should come back to you quickly to ensure that any issues are resolved.

Declining an offer must be done politely in case another offer falls through or should you wish to apply for another role with the same company in the future.


                                               

            

Beat the competition! - Make sure your CV stands out from the crowd & win at interview!