How to Ace an Interview

Interviews can be terrifying. Why would they not be?  A company is essentially determining whether a candidate would be a good fit for the opening and their company culture based off a conversation, body language, and responses. However, what candidates do not know is that the candidate is interviewing the employer just as much as the employer is interviewing the candidate.  

 Candidates should go to every interview prepared to answer any questions about the job description, company knowledge, and experience related to the opening. They should also prepare questions of their own. Interviewees should prepare 3-5 top questions to learn more about the company. Topics should include, leaning about the company culture, the company reputation, growth opportunities, performance measurements, and most importantly, the role itself.

 Asking questions during an interview shows the hiring manager that the candidate is interested and invested in the company. It also gives the candidate insightful information about whether the company is a good fit for them.

 Questions a candidate can ask during an interview:

 Company Culture:

1. How would you describe the company’s work culture?
2. What is the employee turnover rate and what is the company doing to reduce it?
3. How often do employees make themselves available outside of normal working hours?
4. What is your personal experience working for the company?

Company Reputation:

1. What would you say is the reason most employees leave the company?
2. What is one thing the company is currently working on improving?
3. Amongst past and present employees, what is the company known for?
4. How would you score the company on living up to its core values?

The Role:

1. Can you provide specific details about the day-to-day responsibilities for this position?
2. What does the training period for someone in this role look like?
3. How does this role contribute to the company’s success?
4. What do you hope someone in this position accomplishes in the first six months and the first year?

Growth Opportunities:

1. What does it take to be a top performer in this company and this role?
2. Does the company provide professional development opportunities?
3. What routes for career growth does the company offer?
4. What type of mentor system does the company have in place?

Performance Measurements:

1. What have past employees done to succeed in this role?
2. How does the company evaluate success?
3. How often are performance evaluation conducted?
4. How does the company recognize hard work?

Preparing questions well in advance for your interview is importan.t because Questions can be good. However, some questions are not therefore preparation is essential.

Five topics that can tank your interview. Candidates should avoid asking any of the following:

Never ask “what does the company do?”

• Do your homework beforehand, you are interested in the company, know their mission, their history, and get familiar with their website.

Never ask about background checks.

• Asking about background checks gives the interviewer a sense that are hiding something. Always assume there will be background check including alcohol and drug testing.

Never ask if the interviewer will be contacting your previous employer.

• Companies will always conduct employment verification but asking this will have hiring managers question your relationship with your ex-boss.

Never ask about additional positions available.

• Avoid this question, unless you are told you are not a good fit for the role you are currently interviewing for.

Never ask, “what are grounds for terminations?”

• It is never a good idea for the hiring manager to think about firing you before they have considered hiring you.

Although, interviews can be nerve wrecking, make sure to be confident and prepared. The interview process is all about first impressions. Hiring manager’s want to make a great first impression and the candidate certainly wants to get hired. Preparation is key to a successful interview. Asking questions shows the hiring manager the interviewee is serious, knowledgeable, and well-prepared. Ask questions that are beneficial for yourself and  the hiring manager.