Six Questions to Ask in an Interview

Here are a few helpful (insightful) questions that you might not have thought about asking:

• What do you like most about working here? Alternately, ask some question requesting a description of the company culture. Understanding what other employees appreciate about a workplace can give you a better idea of whether it will be a fit for you. 
  

• What would you change about the workplace or your job? You will likely be asked to describe your own weaknesses, so it’s only fair that the employer should reveal a little of the same. No job is perfect, and it might not be a good sign if the employer presents their company with a complimentary set of rose-colored glasses.
  

• What are the most exciting growth opportunities that you have observed? You might get some valuable insight into the career progression that you will be able to expect, as well as other exciting nuances that the job could offer.
  

• What are the biggest challenges facing the company right now? This is valuable information about possible frustrations or stressors in the workplace. It’s also a potential opportunity to plug your own skill set as a problem-solver.
  

• Who do you consider your top competitor, and why? Ideally, you will already be familiar with any major competitors, but it can be useful to ask for your interviewer’s thoughts and gain perspective on what tactics they use to stay ahead in the marketplace.
  

• What is the best benefit you offer? This one is a little tricky. Generally, candidates wait until later in the hiring process to ask about salary and benefits; however, this question shows a bit of creativity and genuine interest into the people and culture of the firm.
  

Just remember not to ask yes/no questions, and avoid questions that are so broad in scope that you will get a vague answer. Asking smart, focused, open-ended questions is the best way to not only make a good impression, but to get the information that you need.