POWERFUL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS TO ASK

People often struggle with figuring out what might be good questions to ask potential employers. It's helpful to strike a balance between insightfulness and avoidance of intrusiveness. Here are a few questions for you to consider.

WHAT ARE THE IMMEDIATE CHALLENGES FOR THE PERSON HIRED INTO THIS POSITION?

This inquiry opens a new way for you to explore with the interviewer the value of your qualifications. If you are a quick thinker, you may be able to illustrate how you could effectively meet such challenges.

HOW IS PERFORMANCE IN THIS POSITION EVALUATED?

A thorough understanding of accountabilities can help you determine how good of a match you are for the job. It also provides another opportunity to leverage the strengths you have to offer. The answer to this question sometimes reveals a peak into the work culture. Is a team approach important? Are expectations clear and realistic?

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO KNOW ABOUT ME TO HELP CLARIFY HOW WELL I FIT THE POSITION?

Asked near the end, this gives the interviewers an opportunity to consider your match for the position within the interview, not just afterwards. Then you have the chance to address any concerns that are brought up.

WHEN CAN I EXPECT TO HEAR FROM YOU AS TO THE NEXT STEP?

As a closing question, this encourages specificity in an area where interviewers can often be vague.

It is also a good idea to develop a question or two based upon your research of the company. First, it shows you care enough about the position to gather information, and secondly, the answers can give you more of an "insider view" of the move you are considering.

Strategically preparing questions to ask for interviews can expand your sense of power in this social dynamic.