A job interview can be as nerve-racking as a first date. You dress up, formulate answers to every question they could possibly ask and then fight your anxiety in the hopes of making a strong first impression.
But, imagine how strange that first date would be if you only prepared to answer questions without asking any of your own. How would you find out anything about that other person? How could you know if the two of you would mesh well together? In a job interview, the same principle applies. If you’re not curious during the interview process, you could end up in a position that’s not a good fit for you or the company. And breaking up is hard to do.
To land the job of your dreams and live happily ever after, prepare to answer (and ask) these questions in your next job interview:
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- What makes you a fit for our culture?
Being a cultural fit is just as important as having the proper skill-set. Culture is the way the company operates and how work gets done. If the organization requires dressing in suits every day and you only own one, would you be willing to invest in more? Or perhaps the organization is fast-paced and you’re used to a more relaxed environment, could you handle it or would you become frustrated?Questions like, “Who would be my supervisor, and what is their management style?” are valuable in finding out if that is the right position for you. You know what kind of environment in which you thrive. Be sure to ask all the proper questions to determine if the company matches the kind of culture you mesh with in order to reach maximum potential. - What do you want to get out of this role?
A job is give and take. Employers expect certain things from an employee and you should expect certain things from an employer. For example, training is crucial to growing your career. Ensure the company you’re interviewing with has an established training program. After responding, ask the interviewer, “What does this role look like when it’s done well?” If what they explain doesn’t peak your interest you will know to move on in your job search.Whether it’s an entry-level role or a leadership position, this question not only helps the employer understand what you want to accomplish, but will help set yourself up for a happy work-life. - What has made you successful?
Are you reading the latest trends, research and data reports to discover how to achieve greater success in your career? If so, tell them. Being able to provide detailed information will give the interviewer insights into how you plan to accomplish your tasks and responsibilities. Use real work or life experiences to effectively paint a picture of how you’ve created success previously. To determine if the position will help you move towards the success you desire, ask, “What does advancement look like for this particular position?” - Why should we hire you?
If caught off guard, this question could be difficult to answer. The key is preparation. Tell them what value you would add to their company, what motivates you and what your work style is. If you really want the position, you shouldn’t have any problems communicating your personal value proposition and how it aligns with the organization. Digging a little deeper may be necessary to convey your preparedness, which is why it is important to make sure you have specifics in mind. You can accomplish this by referencing the job description and matching it with the skills you possess and past experiences that have made those skills even stronger.Before leaving the interview, ask, “What’s the next step in the process?” or, “Is there anything I can do to move further in the process?” Asking those types of questions lets the hiring manager know you are interested in the position and you’re willing to put yourself out there.
- What makes you a fit for our culture?
These questions are some of many that you will encounter during the interview process, but they are critical in knowing if the company aligns with what you want and visa-versa. Knowing how to properly answer these questions will prepare you for success during the interview, which will allow you to make an informed career decision. Only then can you live happily ever after!
