The smartest questions of a candidate

Nothing is more boring than a candidate who has no questions for the employer. But if you don't know what to ask, ViralHire's suggestions can help you show professionalism, thoughtfulness and commitment at work.

A candidate who doesn't know what to ask is often due to lack of preparation or stress during an interview. If necessary, keep notes on the questions that pop up in your head, which is especially useful if you interview online. And not all of the questions below that ViralHire suggests are imperative to pose to employers. The most logical questions are those that naturally appear during the conversation.

Don't be afraid to ask questions to the employer

1. Has anyone done this position before? What makes this position continue to be recruited?

This is an important question to ask because if you are offered a job, it means that you will inherit the rules, working environment and unfinished tasks from your predecessor.

It is possible that this new position was laid out to meet the development of the company. If so, ask the next question about who is responsible for the affairs of this position and how will you receive the handover of these tasks?

If the employer is in need of filling the gap by the departure of the former personnel, do not be afraid to ask to understand what happened. Was the predecessor promoted, transferred internally or quit his job? Ask about the circumstances that make them leave the company if they have one.

2. How does the superior expect achievement in the first six months?

Job descriptions and position descriptions usually only present routine tasks and responsibilities. This question will determine the actual results that superiors expect from you. As possible if they can be concretized by performance achievement.

Their answers can give you the opportunity to” show off ” the right competencies as well as commit to the desire to contribute those values. Or vice versa, show you that the employer's expectations are inappropriate in reality or do not resemble you. 

3. How is my success measured?

This question is useful so that you know how the company recognizes your efforts. Is there a KPI system, OKR or will it be based on specific rules? Are skills such as communication or analysis, improvisation appreciated on that scale?

A successful interview is when both parties understand each other's expectations

4. What is the most challenging part of the job at the company? What makes you love working here?

The job of the employer can be much different from the job you are applying for. However, they certainly have a deeper understanding of the immediate challenges in this work environment. And their interest (if any) will likely provide more information about the support and help that you can get from the collective.

5. How will I get the tools and resources to do my job well?

For example, with some positions, it is necessary for the company to provide high-profile computers. If the company has specialists, advisors, or related departments that can assist you in the work process are also notable pluses. So this question can help you see the challenges, or the advantages of taking this position.

6. What opportunities will I have to learn and grow?

Does the company have internal courses, trainings or facilitate employee capacity building? Do they value ongoing training or personnel development so that you have the opportunity to advance? Constant training will help you always be a quality personnel in the collective. Listen to the answer to compare the suitability between your wishes and the company's responsiveness.

There may be questions you have never asked. Don't be afraid to put them out for business, because applying and hiring is a fair game. The employer needs to know if you are suitable for the position, and you should also have the necessary information about the work environment before both parties put a pen into the contract.

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