Best questions to ask in an interview

Here are the most important questions to ask at a job interview:

How would you describe the ideal candidate?

What this question does is enable the hiring supervisor to imagine you actually in the job as he or she is describing the position, says Cynthia Shapiro, a career strategist and author of What Does Somebody Have To Do To Get A Job Around Here?

Technically, it is a form of transference. But practically, it’s a way to role-play. “I’m so glad you said you need an Excel wiz. In my last position I...” Grab this as an opportunity to describe yourself doing the very things the interviewer outlined by using past experiences and wins.

Continuing this line of questioning — “What are the top three qualities you’re looking for?” — will reveal key information. Take mental or actual notes (it’s OK to have pen and paper handy — it’ll keep your hands busy) in order to shape your responses accordingly for future interviews or later in the conversation.

How do you envision this position supporting you?

At face value, this question has nothing to do with the job candidate herself — and the interviewer will certainly appreciate that. You’ve likely already listed your entire past job and educational experiences. Instead of more me-me-me talk, it translates to I’m-all-about-you.

“What you’re saying to your potential employer without saying it is, ‘I’ll make your life easier’”, says Shapiro. “That alone will put you at the top of the list.”

This query will open the door to discussions about the position and overall business strategy. It is perfectly appropriate at this point to ask about the person who is leaving (left or promoted?) or why the position was created, says Louise Garver founder of Career Directions, LLC. You will also want to ask about the specific challenges and goals of the job, and the company’s vision for it in the next six months, year and five years.

If you feel uncomfortable, you can always couch your queries as permission-based statements, as in, “May I ask...,” says Garver.

How would you define ‘success’ for this position?

(Hint: many companies do not have performance evaluation systems in place, so you may catch your interviewer by surprise.)

This question not only reveals the kind of boss you are applying to — is he or she hands-off or a micro-manager? – But will give you insights into the company’s procedures and culture.

What can I do for you as follow-up?

You want to know how you can grease the process in your favour. What you are saying, though, is, “How can I help you?” And the more you find out about who or what group will be making the decision and their timeline, the more influence you have in terms of making the right contacts and sending follow-up information.

“What employers are looking for are people who really want to work in the organisation and are enthusiastic about affecting the outcome of the interview,” says Garver.

Adapted from forbeswoman.com