20 questions to ask if you're the job candidate

You finally got the interview you had been waiting for. You feel confident that you left a good impression on the HR interviewer. After orienting you about the requirements of the job, the interviewer asks: “Do you have any questions?”

Yes! 

This shows that you are interested in getting to know more about the position and the company. The only problem is, it’s so easy to fumble for words when you’re not prepared. Most of the time, candidates ask whatever comes up in their mind first, without thinking whether the question makes any sense. 

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To avoid embarrassing yourself and feeling anxious, prepare a list of questions you can ask your interviewer. Making a list makes you look enthusiastic, engaged, and interested. And asking relevant questions gives you a chance to emphasise your qualities and experience.

It’s also OK to ask your interviewer to clarify certain things about the job, but don’t make it look like you weren’t paying attention to what they said earlier. Be careful not to sound like you’re just asking questions without any purpose. 

Remember that the goal is to find out aspects of the job that can be helpful to your next career move.

Read more: STOP! Illegal questions you should NEVER ask in a job interview

20 questions you can ask if you’re interviewing for a job

1. Do you have any questions about my qualifications for the position that you believe I can improve?

2. Is there something missing from my resume that you need?

3. Why and how did this position become available?

4. What were the challenges that the previous employee faced in this role?

5. What do you enjoy best about working here?

6. Will there be opportunities for career progression and training within the company?

7. What does a typical day look like for the job you are offering?

8. What are things I could do to impress you in the next three months?

9. What qualities does the company look for in employees?

10. In which direction is the company headed in the next five years?

11. Could you describe the company culture?

12. Could you tell me more about the team I would be working with?

13. How does the team form strong bonds?

14. Will I be able to represent the company in industry events?

15. Could you give me examples of projects that I might be working on?

16. How does this role contribute to the company overall?

17. How frequently would my performance be reviewed?

18. What goals or metrics would my performance be evaluated against?

19. What are the current goals the company is focusing on?

20. How has this organisation overcome difficulties in business performance in the past?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions to your interviewer. The more relevant the question is, the deeper you’ll understand the culture of the company you’ll be working for. Welcome the possibilities. You deserve a toast!