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| Women in a business office |
“Do you have any questions for us?” This is actually among the most important interview questions you’ll be asked. The questions you ask your interviewer will set you apart from your competition and secure you an offer. Follow up questions to ask after an interview What question should you always ask last in an interview? There are several of them. Good follow up questions after an interview will help you find more insights into the previously provided information. Simply put, they’re questions you ask to expand or clarify information. Here are some of the follow up questions to ask after an interview. 1. Can you tell me more about the day-to-day responsibilities of this job? Reason: Understanding the daily tasks helps determine if the role aligns with your skills and interests. Example: “Can you walk me through a typical day for someone in this position?” 2. What are the biggest challenges the team is currently facing? Reason: This shows you are interested in problem-solving and prepared to contribute to the team’s success. Example: “What are the most significant challenges the team is dealing with right now, and how can someone in this role help address them?” 3. How do you measure success in this role? Reason: Knowing the performance metrics helps you understand what is expected and how to excel. In addition, this is among the best 3rd interview questions to ask employers. Example: “What are the key performance indicators for this position, and how is success measured?” 4. Can you describe the company culture? Reason: Understanding the company culture ensures you will be a good fit and enjoy working in that environment. Example: “How would you describe the company culture here, and what type of personalities thrive within your team?” 5. What opportunities are there for professional development? Reason: Shows your interest in growing with the company and improving your skills. Example: “What professional development and growth opportunities does the company offer?” 6. How does this role contribute to the company’s goals? Reason: Demonstrates your interest in understanding the broader impact of your work within the organization. Example: “How does this position contribute to the company’s goals and mission?” Candidate giving resume to recruiter at desk in workplace. 7. Can you tell me about the team I will be working with? Reason: Knowing the team dynamics helps you understand your potential colleagues and how you might fit in. Example: “Can you tell me more about the team I would be working with and the key stakeholders I would interact with?” 8. What are the next steps in the interview process? Reason: Shows that you are interested in moving forward and helps you understand the timeline for follow-up. Example: “Can you outline the next steps in the interview process and when I can expect to hear back from you?” 9. How has the company evolved over the past few years? Reason: Shows your interest in the company’s growth and stability and helps you understand its trajectory. Example: “How has the company changed and grown over the past few years, and what are its plans for the future?” 10. Can you provide examples of projects I would be working on? Reason: It helps you understand the type of work you will be involved in and shows you are ready to contribute. Example: “Can you give me some examples of projects I would be working on if I were hired for this role?” Questions to ask at the end of an informal interview Informal interviews aren’t structured like a traditional interview, although they typically have a similar goal – determining if a candidate would be a good fit for the company. They usually happen outside the office, such as over coffee or lunch. Here are some of the questions to ask at the end of an informal interview: 1. What excites you most about (company name)? Reason: Informal interviews are a chance to understand what energizes the people who work there. This question goes beyond basic company information and reveals what truly motivates them. Example: “This company seems to be doing ground-breaking work in (industry). What excites you most about being a part of that innovation?” 2. What are some of the most valuable skills you’ve developed in your role? Reason: This question shows interest in the role and helps you understand the skills most valued within the company. This can help tailor your future interactions and applications. Example: “You mentioned your role involves a lot of project management. What skills have you found most valuable in successfully navigating those projects?” 3. Are there any industry resources or publications you’d recommend I follow? Reason: This shows you’re taking the initiative to learn more about the field beyond just one conversation. Following their recommendations positions you as someone genuinely interested and engaged. Example: “This conversation has been beneficial. Are there any specific industry resources or publications you’d recommend I follow to stay up-to-date on the latest trends?” 4. What are some of the biggest challenges facing the industry right now? Reason: By asking about industry challenges, you demonstrate that you’re not just focused on a single role but are engaged with the broader landscape. This can spark a deeper conversation and showcase your critical thinking skills. Example: “It seems like the industry is facing some interesting challenges around (industry issue). What are your thoughts on how these challenges are being addressed?” Female recruiter is interviewing a job candidate using a laptop and reviewing their resume. 5. Are there any upcoming industry events or resources you’d recommend I check out? Reason: This question shows you’re proactive and want to take the next step in your learning journey. Networking events and industry resources are invaluable. Example: “I’m always looking for ways to expand my knowledge. Are there any conferences or online communities you recommend for someone interested in (industry topic)?” 6. Is there anything specific a young professional can do to stand out in this industry? Reason: This question shows you’re serious about your career path and eager for guidance. Example: “With the competitive nature of this industry, what advice would you give to someone just starting to make themselves stand out to potential employers?” 7. You mentioned (something specific from the conversation). Can you please tell me more about that? Reason: Following up on a specific detail shows the interviewer you were actively listening and were interested in a deeper conversation. It allows you to explore a topic that piqued your curiosity and gain valuable insights. Example: “You mentioned the company is working on a new sustainability project. Can you tell me a bit more about what that entails?” 8. Is there a recent project you’re particularly proud of? Reason: This question allows the interviewer to share a success story they’re passionate about. It gives you a glimpse into the kind of work they value and the company’s direction. Example: “I see the company has been getting a lot of recognition for its work in (area). Is there a recent project you’re particularly proud of?” 9. Have you encountered any challenges in your career path that you wouldn’t mind sharing? Reason: Everyone faces hurdles in their careers. By asking about challenges, you show the interviewer you’re interested in their journey and can learn valuable lessons from their experiences. Example: “Everyone faces obstacles sometimes. Have you encountered any challenges in your career path that you wouldn’t mind sharing?” 10. If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of career advice, what would it be? Reason: This question allows the interviewer to share a personal anecdote and offer career wisdom they’ve gained through experience. It can be both insightful and a way to connect with them more personally. Example: If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of career advice, what would it be?”
by Bill Cyril Salasya