Many job hunters freeze up during interviews. It’s common to feel judged, and to direct all your focus toward making a good impression. Yet a job interview should be a two-way street. Not only is the interviewer determining whether you are right for the company, but you should be deciding whether the company is right for you. How else can you evaluate whether you will be happy with the position? In addition, asking questions shows that you are invested in the process. If you’re having trouble coming up with questions to ask, here are some suggestions.
What Does a Typical Day in the Role Look Like?
Job descriptions are often vague. Many employers throw in every duty that you might occasionally be asked to do. Inquiring about a typical day in the role can give you a better idea of what you’ll regularly be doing. This can make it easier to imagine yourself in the position.
How Would You Describe the Company Culture?
This is a great way to get an insider’s view of the organization and to compare it to your ideal workplace. If you’re an introvert, a company that’s dedicated to collaboration and team projects might not be the best fit. Likewise, if you’re a people person, a company that offers few opportunities to get to know your workmates could be the wrong choice.
How Is Success Measured in This Job?
All jobs have different metrics for success. You might be expected to complete a certain number of pieces per day, or receive a minimum monthly score on customer surveys, or meet some other KPI (key performance indicator). Asking about this upfront helps you understand what is most important in the role and determine whether it fits your strengths.
Why Do You Like Working for This Company?
Your interviewer may be in an entirely different part of the company than you would be, especially in a first screening interview. Employees in different areas sometimes have very different experiences. Still, the question is worth asking. If your interviewer has trouble coming up with an answer, it could be a red flag. Likewise, if the interviewer’s favorite thing about the company is something that sounds awful to you, there could be a potential mismatch.
Are There Opportunities for Advancement?
No matter how perfect the position sounds now, growth is an essential key to workplace satisfaction. If there’s nowhere to go, it doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t take the job now. However, it may be a sign that you shouldn’t plan to stay for more than a year or two.
Ready for a Career Boost?
To learn how Custom Staffing can help you find the light industrial job you truly want, contact us at 419-221-3097 or apply online today.
