27 Questions to Engage with Interviewers and Ace Your Interview

Usually, some job interviews may feel more like interrogations, as most candidates tend to be passive, and the interview tends to be one-sided with the interviewer asking questions and the candidate responding. However, Aniday advises against falling into such a passive stance. 

If you need help coming up with unique interview questions to ask recruiters or wondering what questions to ask at the end of an interview, consider the following questions suggested by Aniday. These questions can make the interview more interesting and provide you with a better understanding from the recruiter's perspective.

Questions about your role

A small note from Aniday is to be careful not to ask questions already answered in the job description. It's essential to ask questions beyond those tasks to understand everything the job requires. Specific examples include:

• Can the company provide specific details about the responsibilities and daily tasks of this position?

• What does my first week at work look like, and what should I prepare for?

• How will this position's success contribute to the company's overall success?

• What does the company expect me to accomplish in this role?

• How does the company culture influence this role?

• How does my job performance affect other departments?

Aniday also wants to remind you that instead of delving deep into the details of the main responsibilities listed in the job description, recruiters may talk more broadly about other tasks. They might ask you to take on more than you initially thought.

Open-ended introduction questions

Most likely, the interviewer is your first contact at this company – they might even be your future boss. Asking questions can help you understand their attitude, the company's values, and where the company is heading. Some questions Aniday often receives from candidates include:

• What do you like most about working here?

• Why do you work in this industry?

• Can you briefly introduce a typical working day for you?

• What is your biggest achievement with the company?

• What is your team's most significant accomplishment?

• Do you have any goals for the company, yourself, and your employees in the next five years?

• What are your hobbies outside of working hours?

Note in this section: Be cautious of leaders having difficulty being open or seeming less passionate about the company and their team.

Questions about management style

Understanding which management style suits you best for efficient work is crucial. This is the perfect time to see if the company's leaders align with your expectations. In Aniday's extensive experience in the recruiting industry, many candidates struggle to develop themselves just because they don't match the management style. Some questions that can help you understand the company's management style better include:

• How does upper management encourage employees to ask questions or propose solutions?

• What activities do managers and employees typically engage in outside of working hours?

• How does the company receive feedback from employees?

• How does management provide negative feedback to employees?

Questions about company culture

From benefits and privileges to how employees interact with each other, if you don't fit into the company's culture, it could be a hindrance to your success. Some questions you might want to ask:

• How would you describe the company's workplace culture?

• Can you describe the working environment here?

• What benefits focus on maintaining a work-life balance?

• What policies and benefits does the company provide for employees?

• How often do employees work overtime?

You should pay close attention to how the interviewer describes the company's benefits and environment to ensure it aligns with your personality and work style.

Measuring employee performance

Understanding the company's expectations and how they measure goals before accepting a job offer can help you determine if their style is a motivating factor for you during your work. Some questions to get a better grasp of this are:

• How are employees recognized when they perform well in their tasks?

• Do employees set personal goals to align with the company's objectives during work?

• What is the company's perspective on goals, schedules, and performance measurement?

• How often are employees reviewed for salary increases and bonuses?

• How does the company usually evaluate an employee's job performance?

Advancement opportunities

What is your ultimate career goal? Prepare for success by understanding where this new position can take you on your career path.

• Does the company have a department for skill and career assessments based on individual achievements?

• Are there training programs for employees on a monthly or quarterly basis?

• What are the opportunities for career advancement?

• How does management support the development and success of employees?

• What does it take to become the top performer in this company?

A note from Aniday: If an interviewer cannot share how you can advance within the company, it's likely that you may not progress at the rate you desire.

Remember, these questions are not only for you to gather information but also to show your genuine interest in the position and the company. Ask questions that align with your priorities and values to ensure a successful and fulfilling work experience.