Five smart questions you should ask during every job interview

EMPLOYERS shouldn’t be the only ones asking questions during job interviews. Here are the five things you should always ask.

EMPLOYERS shouldn’t be the only ones asking questions during job interviews.

Although interviews are typically a time for hiring managers to learn more about the candidates, it’s also important for candidates to pose some questions of their own.

Interviews are the perfect opportunity to learn about a company’s priorities, the position and how you can add value, says Bill Driscoll of staffing firm Accountemps.

“When first meeting with potential employers, it’s better to pose big-picture questions so you can discover how aligned your skills and personality are with the role and the organisation,” Mr Driscoll said. “You can delve into the details in future meetings.”

Most professionals do spend at least some time during their interviews asking questions of their potential employer, according to a new Accountemps study.

Overall, 84 per cent of those surveyed said that, when interviewing for a job, they ask the hiring manager questions of their own, the study found. The most common topics they inquire about are salary, corporate culture, benefits and chances for advancement.

Accountemps suggested five questions applicants should ask during job interviews to gain insight on employers:

• What’s a typical day like for someone in this position? The answer to this question provides you with a better idea of not only what’s required of the position on a day-to-day basis, but also how well your would-be boss understands what the job involves.

• Why did the person who previously held the job leave? Taking a job that’s a revolving door might not be the best move for you. That could mean there are unrealistic expectations or that previous workers holding the position weren’t set up for success.

• What qualities do you need to be successful in this position? This is a chance for you to highlight how your relevant traits match with what the hiring manager is looking for, and also helps you make sure you have the strengths needed to be successful.

• What are the greatest opportunities for the company in the next several years? The answer to this question gives you an idea of how the business may fare in the coming years, as well as whether those in charge are more pragmatic or visionary.

• What do you like most about working here? This gives you insight into the employer’s corporate culture and a better sense of what motivates your potential boss.

The study was based on surveys of more than 400 US workers 18 years or older and employed in office environments.

This article originally appeared on BusinessNewsDaily.