www.lucasgroup.com

EXECUTIVE INSIGHTS - BLOG www.careeradvice.lucasgroup.com

“Do you have any questions for me?” The Answer Should Always Be, “Yes”

A job interview is not only the time for a company to decide whether or not you’re the right candidate for the job, but also to determine whether or not the company is a good fit for you. Interviews are structured so that the interviewer asks the majority of the questions, allowing you, the candidate, to do most of the talking. Working in this way allows you to walk through your resume and qualifications to prove your value and worth for a position. However, at the end of most interviews, the interviewer will often ask if you have any final questions. The answer should always be, “Yes.”

As a Senior Executive Search Consultant with Lucas Group, I have coached a number of candidates through the interview process, and I have compiled a list of suggested questions to ask during an interview:

What is the growth potential with the position?

This is one of the more important questions to ask an interviewer in order to see where he or she thinks the ideal candidate would be with the company in five years. Determine whether there’s a clear career path to follow and if the position would lead to more opportunities within the organization. You want to ensure the position provides vertical movement and would allow you to advance within the company with your tenure and success.

Why is the position open?

Get a clear understanding of why the position is available. Where is the pervious employee now? Did they leave for a better opportunity? Were they promoted? Feel out the interviewer for any red flags.

What would you define as success in the first year in the position?

Understand what goals there would be within the first year in the position and gauge their expectations, making sure they’re realistic.

Get to know your boss.

In some instances, the interviewer will be your manager. In others, it may be another individual. Ask about their management style and listen for any potential issues that may arise that would keep you from performing at your highest potential.

By having a prepared list of questions to ask the interviewer, you’ll be able to gain better insight into the position and whether or not it would be a good career move both personally and professionally. What are other questions you have asked during an interview? We invite your thoughts in the comments below.

Questions to Ask in an Interview by

Michael Hoyt Senior Executive Search Consultant - Manufacturing