Many of us prepare for a job interview by getting to know the position we are being interviewed for, and the company or agency in which it is located. One thing many people neglect, however, is to think of questions to ask the interviewer. The right questions can make a positive impression on the interviewer, and maybe even improve your chances of being given the position. We have formulated nine questions that could help you to do just that.
1. Could you please describe your company culture?
Although no-one will admit that the company culture is one of mobbing and bossing, this question will allow you to gain some insight into what it is like to work for that specific company. You are looking for keywords such as training, mentorship, endless supply of strong coffee, massages, chill areas, flexi-time, pop-corn Fridays, and so on, things that would improve and enhance your overall experience of being an employee at that company.
2. Who is my team and to whom would I be reporting?
This question shows that you already see yourself as a member of the company. It reveals that you are people- and team-oriented, and not just making your decisions based on job title, money and benefits. This question will help you to ascertain which of your skills will be useful to the company, and what skills your team members possess.
3. Is there room for growth? This question is similar to “where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?”
You don’t want the interviewer to think that the job you are applying for is just a stepping stone in your career. Expressing interest in how you could grow in the company shows that you are planning your future with them in mind.
4. What is the leadership style of upper management?
It is important for you to know if the hierarchies are flat or steep, as this will influence how many people you have to negotiate with in order to implement a decision. The answer to this question will also tell you if the company is an agency environment, or if it is a big corporate.
5. How is the success of your employees measured?
By asking this question, you show that you not only want to deliver work of a high standard, but you also want to grow and develop your skills. You want to know if there is a performance appraisal system in place. This is important for you as it will help you to be treated according to your performance, rather than someone’s personal judgment. In addition, promotion, perks and fair salary increases depend on it.
6. Where does this role fit within the broad company structure?
You want to know in which department you will be working, with which brands, and in which teams. When applying for a job in digital marketing this question could enlighten you as to whether you would be working in above–the-line or below-the-line advertising, or if you would be working in digital marketing or traditional marketing.
7. Is there training and mentorship?
Training and mentorship are important, especially for young candidates. You don’t want to be trapped in a repetitive job while your peers are excelling in their positions.
8. Do you offer formal induction into the role?
An induction programme is the process used in many businesses to welcome new employees to the company and prepare them for their new role. Companies which have a formal induction program have realised that employees are not replaceable, and that looking out for their employees pays off. 35 % of employees leave a new company during their first six months. Without induction, new employees could get off to a bad start and never really understand the company or their role within the team.
9. How many stages are there in the interview process?
Some companies take the screening process to the extreme. Companies, such as some of the digital marketing agencies in Cape Town that we are dealing with are running first, second and even third interviews, as well as requiring completion of several tests and assignments. Asking about the parameters of the interview process shows that you are preparing yourself, and taking control of the process. This will also give your future employer an idea of how you would approach tasks and processes if you are employed in the company.
And which questions not to ask: Never ask about salary, especially in your first interview! Preparing questions beforehand shows the interviewer that you have invested time and effort in preparing for the interview.
If you ask the right questions, you can demonstrate a positive attitude and show the interviewer that you are interested in the position and the company, qualities that would make you a worthy employee.
