"Judge a man by his questions rather than by his answers.” – Voltaire
10 Questions You Should Ask Your Next Potential Employer:
Interviewing is an art, a crucial step in shaping the next chapter of your career. Yet, too often, candidates treat it as a one-sided evaluation focusing on making a great impression while forgetting to assess whether the company fits them. The truth is that interviews should be a two-way street. You are not just being evaluated; you are also considering the employer.
Asking insightful questions helps figure out if this opportunity aligns with your values and goals and shows your critical thinking, preparedness, and genuine interest in the role. When an employer sees a candidate who asks well-thought-out questions, it sets them apart. If two equally qualified candidates are in the running, the one who engages in meaningful dialogue will always have the edge.
Here are 10 powerful questions rooted in the NEPQ (Neuro-Emotional Persuasion Questioning) model, designed to help you better understand the role, expectations, and company culture.
1.
How did this position become available?
Why ask this? This question reveals whether the role is new or a replacement. It may indicate company growth and uncertainty about its long-term stability if it's new. If it's a replacement, it’s essential to understand why the previous employee left.
2.
How many people have held this role in the last five years?
Why ask this? A high turnover rate may indicate management issues, unrealistic expectations, or a toxic work environment. A stable history suggests a well-structured role.
3.
What are the expectations for this position in the first six months to a year?
Why ask this? Understanding immediate and long-term expectations helps you gauge whether you can realistically meet performance benchmarks.
4.
How many people in this role meet or exceed these expectations?
Why ask this? This sheds light on the feasibility of the targets set by the company. If few people meet expectations, it might suggest that the goals are impractical or that the company lacks proper support systems.
5.
When was the last time someone in this department was promoted?
Why ask this? Career growth is essential. This question helps you understand whether the company values internal promotions or if advancement is stagnant.
6.
Can you describe the qualities of your most successful employee?
Why ask this? It gives you a roadmap of what the employer values and what it takes to thrive.
7.
What characteristics have led past employees to struggle in this role?
Why ask this? Knowing what leads to failure helps you understand potential pitfalls and whether your skills and work style align with expectations.
8.
What type of manager support can I expect in this role?
Why ask this? This type of leadership can significantly impact your success and job satisfaction. Are you getting a mentor to guide you or a manager who will leave you to figure things out alone?
9.
How would you describe the company culture?
Why ask this? Culture affects job satisfaction and productivity. This question allows you to assess whether the company’s environment aligns with your values and working style.
10.
If I were to join your team, what book or resource would you recommend I read to get up to speed?
Why ask this? This question shows that you are committed to continuous learning and growth. A strong response also indicates that the company has clear resources to help employees succeed.
3 Tips for Using These Questions Effectively:
1.
Write them out before the interview:
Preparation is key. Write down these questions beforehand so you don’t forget them under pressure.
2.
Ask for permission to ask questions early in the interview:
Bringing this up early shows you’re proactive and engaged. A great way to frame it: "I also have a few questions I’d love to ask. Would it be okay to do that toward the end?"
3.
Take notes:
Jotting down responses shows professionalism and helps you review key insights later. If an interviewer hesitates to let you take notes, that could be a red flag about transparency.
Final Thought:
Your career is too meaningful to leave to chance. By asking thoughtful, strategic questions, you take control of your future and ensure that your next role fits you. Be bold. Be curious. And most importantly, know your worth!
