#1: What defines success in this role?
This question shows your employer that you care about your own success as well as the company’s. It demonstrates that you’re eager to hit the ground running from the get-go and can help you identify what is required of you.
This is likely to get you thinking about what your aspirations, goals and targets could be as an employee, helping you decide if that’s something that excites and motivates you, and could ultimately determine your desire to be the selected candidate for the position.
#2: What are some of the challenges I might face in this role?
Having an idea of the challenges you could come up against in your new role can help you understand what you might need to overcome to meet targets or achieve goals. This could either further entice your interest or make you reconsider if the role is for you.
To your interviewer, this question demonstrates that you’re a forward-thinker and someone who is wanting to develop their skills and experience. Facing challenges that require you to step outside your comfort zone to learn or go beyond your realm of expertise will only help you grow and progress in your career, which is sure to impress any employer.
#3: Can you tell me more about the team and department I would be working in?
The job’s position description will likely describe how the role you’re applying for contributes to a team within the organisation and the impact you have as a collective.
This question allows you to find out more about the people you’re likely to have frequent contact with in order to carry out your own tasks and responsibilities. If it hasn’t already been discussed, company structure may also be covered here and could provoke discussion about career progression.
#4: How would you describe the company culture?
Your enjoyment at work is key to your success, and at the core of both enjoyment and success is company culture.
This question provides an opportunity to learn about the people and the environment that make the company what it is. It’s a chance to discover whether you’ll fit in and whether it’s a workplace where you can see yourself growing personally and professionally.
While you might be able to find the company’s values, mission and vision statements online, the response you receive to this question will hopefully provide more in-depth insight into what the company prioritises when it comes to its employees and working environment.
#5: What do you enjoy most about your job?
More on the light-hearted side, this question builds rapport with your interviewer and shows that you’re interested in their experience with the company.
Building on your discussion of company culture, this probes a more personal response to how your interviewer feels about going to work every day, which ultimately could make or break your desire to continue to the next stage of the recruitment process.
Whether you need assistance looking for a job, general career advice or additional support to nail your next job interview, RMIT’s career advisors are here to help! Book a one-on-one appointment today.
