Questions Hiring Managers Like to Hear

Image: Pixabay

“Do you have any questions for me?” If you really want the job, do not answer with a “No.”
 
That’s your cue to turn the tables around and be the interviewer. Asking questions shows the hiring manager that you’re interested and serious about the getting the job. Most hiring managers and recruiters are more likely to hire a candidate that asks questions rather than just answering. 
​
This is also your opportunity to learn more about your future role, supervisor or company. You don’t want to make a decision based only on the job description given to you. There are a variety of questions candidates can ask, but here are our top picks.

1) What are the possible challenges this role would entail?
Get a clear understanding of what the job entails, that includes the good, the bad, and the ugly. You don’t want to come in blind. Ask the hiring manager about the challenges his/her team has faced in past projects and how they managed to overcome them.

2) How will my performance be evaluated?
Know what will be expected of you before taking on the role. If you’re applying for a sales position, is there a monthly quota that you must hit? This will show the hiring manager that you are goal-oriented.

3) What is the growth opportunity for this role?
It’s important to know how your career path will evolve when you join a new company. You don’t want to be stuck in a company that doesn’t give you room to grow. By asking this question, recruiters and hiring mangers get the impression that you’re thinking about the long-term.

4) How would you describe the company culture?
Develop an understanding about the company’s personality and environment. While you may fit in the role, you might not fit in the company. Company culture will greatly affect an employee’s performance and duration of stay.

5) ​Can you describe your team dynamics?
This could be a follow up question for #1. Ask how the team has resolved problems in the past. Or, just like company culture, ask the hiring manager about the team’s personality. It’s important to get to know the people you’ll be spending a lot of time with. You might be paid well but is it worth having to tolerate negligent team members?

6) Will I have a chance to speak with the hiring manager?
Ask the recruiter what the interview process will be like. Who will you be talking to first? Will any executives be interviewing you as well? When you know who’ll be conducting the interview, you’ll be better prepared.

7) Do you have any concerns about my qualifications?
Be open to feedback. You can also clear up any misunderstanding the hiring manger will have about your work history and skills.

8) When can I expect to hear from you again?
This question is entirely for the benefit of the candidate. This will give you a date to follow up when you do not hear from the recruiter or hiring manger.

Overall, asking the right questions could help you stand out from the rest of the candidates. Think of the interview as a first date. Both parties need to know more about one another before committing.