Great Questions to Ask at The End of The Interview

Job seekers often prepare extensively for interview questions that focus on their experience and skills; however, preparing questions to ask the interviewer is just as important. When you inquire about the company's workforce, operations and culture, it shows you are genuinely interested in finding a good fit for your career. Avoid ending the interview without showcasing your desire for a fruitful job opportunity. Prepare questions during your job search that make you stand out.

What Do You Like Most About Your Job?

Ask the interviewer or the hiring committee to detail why the company is a solid fit. These type of interview questions asked at the end of the interview show you are curious about why employees feel invested in the company. Let the interviewer know you are seeking positive benefits of working for the company while also giving him the opportunity to brag a little about how he has found success in his position.

What Are the Challenges of This Position?

Prompt the interviewer to reveal any obstacles you may face as an employee in this position so you can offer more insight on how you plan to tackle these challenges. The responses to these type of interview questions allow you to further reveal your problem-solving strategies and show you are willing to face problems right away instead of sweeping them under the rug.

What Type of Professional Development Opportunities Are Available?

Display your willingness to continually improve your knowledge and skills. Employers seek out candidates who are eager to learn more about the industry to better perform their jobs. Ultimately, employees who also seek out training opportunities on their own are more motivated to improve their productivity and as a result, the company's profits are significantly impacted. Follow up with details about how you have taken advantage of professional development opportunities in the past to further display your skill proficiencies.

How Would You Describe the Company Culture?

Interviewers are generally eager to sell the culture of the company to attract qualified candidates. The answer to these types of interview questions also indicate how departments are structured, how teams are formed and how employees interact with one another. You can use this information to explain how your personality and work habits fit in with the company's culture to convince the hiring manager you not only have the skills to succeed on the job but also subscribe to the mission and goals of the company's culture.

Hiring managers are often impressed with candidates who have prepared thoughtful interview questions that clearly reveal they have researched the company. Ask questions that give you the opportunity to further detail your skills and experience to show you are the best fit for the job.

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Rosemary A. • Apr 24, 2016

Yes Thank You! I do believe in the old fashion way too

Nancy Anderson • Apr 19, 2016

Thanks @Robert and we wish you all the best. And, after your next interview, be sure to send a thank you note. Many people say that it's fine to just send an email but I still believe in the old-fashioned method of handwriting the thank you note and sending it in the mail. Shows that you appreciate their time and that you are very interested in the position.

Robert F. • Apr 18, 2016

I am not discouraged at all. I am still actively looking and looking forward to nailing the next interview. Thank you both for your help and kind reassurance.

@Nancy @Mark thank you. I was definitely nervous. To the extent that it must have been noticeable because she asked me if I was nervous . I probably just needed practice before I went in. Next time I'm definitely going to do a mock interview before I go.

Nancy Anderson • Apr 18, 2016

@Mark thanks for that and for letting other job seekers know not to beat themselves up over a failed interview. I, also, have been on both sides of the table here and it's nerve racking on both sides! As the interviewer you have to question whether you are asking the right questions or not and as the interviewee you have to ask - did I answer the questions correctly. If you are going on interview after interview and not getting a job offer, though, it might be time to start asking some questions. That's where the mock interview might come in. You certainly could contact the interviewers and ask why you didn't get the job. They may tell you, they may not but it's always worth a shot. Just make sure that you remain professional on your end. No shouting, no telling them that they are wrong - just listen to what they say and take it to heart. If they give you some recommendations, try them on the next interview. As always, best of luck everyone.

Mark C. • Apr 17, 2016

Also don't loose heart if you don't get it... It happens as maybe that just wasn't the right job for you. People have bad days and so do interviewers so don't be too hard on yourself. I've been on both sides of the table during my many years. So I know how nevere racking the interview process can be for some one, I've "bombed" my fair share over 43 years espically when I was younger.

Nancy you nailed it.... That's great advice for anyone that is out there looking for a job and having interview problems. Practice makes perfect .... Or as close as you can get.

Nancy Anderson • Apr 17, 2016

@Robert so sorry about your interview. You didn't say why you bombed it. Could you not answer the questions? Did nerves get the best of you? Did you get any feedback from the hiring manager either right there after the interview or later on through email or some other form of communication? Honest feedback would really help if you can get it. If not, try doing a mock interview. If you went to college, contact the career services department and schedule an appointment for a mock interview. They will help guide you through and can tell you what might have gone wrong. Maybe it was your body language? Maybe it was your tone? If you didn't attend college, have a trusted friend run you through some questions (you can find a wealth of questions on the internet) and have your friend tape it so that you can review it. This could really help you to make some changes and practice before your next interview. Best of luck.

Robert F. • Apr 16, 2016

Just bombed an interview 😢. How can I make sure I land the next one?

Charles T. • Apr 14, 2016

Never say the words "maybe, possibly, not sure, etc" when being interviewed by prospective employers.

Great Questions to Ask at The End of The Interview

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