When we’re applying for a job, it is common for many of us to feel nervous and intimidated. Often, the more you need the job, the further the ball seems from your court. In job interviews, we try to put our best foot forward. We tidy up, brush up our knowledge and ensure our body language is on point. Amidst all the impressing to do, many people tend to forget that it’s a two-way street.
Remember, a job application that turns into an offer should benefit both the company and you. This means, if your situation allows, you must get a thorough idea of what you are possibly getting into. How many of us end up getting stuck in jobs that do nothing for our growth? Though there is no guarantee how much the answers will help, you can always get an idea of what you’re signing up for.
While we ask common questions such as work timings and working days, etc, we end up missing out on crucial information that can predict our career trajectory if the opportunity turns into a job offer. Here are a few questions you should ask the interviewer.
1. What are the day-to-day responsibilities?
Many people end up complaining about having to do things, they didn’t sign up for. You didn’t ask, they didn’t tell. In fact, often the scope of responsibilities evolves, as per the requirement, especially new teams. Having said that, it will help you to understand what a regular day would look like in this position and the possible directions your responsibilities may expand into.
2. How do you measure an employee’s success in this role?
Ask your interviewer what the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are and how often they are reviewed. This will help you get a larger picture of what is expected from you. You can then assess if you’d like to sign up for it and if you do, plan and execute the strategy to excel in your job.
3. What was the career trajectory of the previous person who held this position?
It is important to know the career trajectory of the person before you. Of course, their growth is largely influenced by their performance, but you may get an idea of how the company is, with regards to your career growth.
4. What do you see as the most challenging aspects of this job?
Every single job has challenges and you should know what kind awaits you, before you sign on the dotted line. Ask your interviewer about the challenging aspects; that will help you make an informed decision, and be better prepared to utilise your strengths to tackle the obstacles, should you take the offer.
5. How would you describe the work culture in this organisation, and in the team, I will be in?
Work culture is everything. Even a well-paying, hobby-turned-job can seem daunting if the work culture in the company or your team is not positive. An employer too may want someone who can fit in, so they will most likely, openly let you know how the culture is. You can then gauge if you will thrive in it.
Also Read: How To Narrate Your Career Stories Effectively In An Interview