Do you have any questions? You know it’s coming and if you’re well prepared you’ll have a few standard questions up your sleeve to ask at the end of the interview. However, as one of our client’s states, ‘an inquisitive candidate is an interesting one’ suggesting that asking something a bit more unusual might just be what bags you the job.

To help make sure you’re well prepared for your next job interview we’ve asked a select group of our clients to share with us the questions they have been most impressed to be asked by job applicants at interviews.

1. Currently, what are the biggest challenges facing the department?

This question communicates that you are already thinking about yourself as part of the wider department and have a mindset that looks at the big picture rather than just your personal goals. In response to your interviewer's answer you then have the chance to recap on some of your skills and experience to demonstrate how you will be able to help the department overcome those challenges.

2. Does the organisation have any plans for expansion? Or, similarly - Are you recruiting many roles at the moment?

This question will need to be tailored to the exact kind of company you are applying for, but the crux of the question is that you are interested in their long-term plan. By asking about the future of the company you are communicating you are curious about where they are going and how you might play a part in that. This question also gives your interviewer an opportunity to talk more about the company’s long term growth strategy, giving you more information on which to base your decision if you are offered the role.

3. What do you like most about working here?

This question gives your interviewer the opportunity to sing the companies praises and provides you with an insight into what it’s really like to work there. You could go further by asking how working at this company compares to its direct competitors which will give you even more insight into their culture.

4. Why are you recruiting for this role and why did the last person leave?

Knowing the answer to this question will ensure you leave the interview well informed about the state of the role you could be taking over. If the person was promoted then that’s great news as it shows internal progression whilst if they left for another reason it gives you a chance to reiterate why you are better suited to the role than they were. On the flip side, you might find out a potential pain point about the role which will help in your decision of whether or not to take it.

5. What opportunities are there to progress here?

Target driven employees are hardworking and motivated, and asking a question like this demonstrates that you possess these desirable characteristics. It communicates that you are not just looking for a short-term fix but seeking a job in which you can progress and grow. Exactly the kind of applicant most interviewers are after.

6. What are the next steps?

This may sound like a functional question but it’s a great one to end on as it shows you’re keen to know more and ensures you leave without any uncertainty about what the next stage in the process is. It’s only natural to be inquisitive and knowing the answer to this question should help stop you from checking your emails every 5 minutes!

If you found this blog useful you might also like our blogs on preparing for a face-to-face interview and how to write a cover letter that gets you hired. To get in touch with any of our consultants please visit our contact us page.