Candidate Interview Questions

• What skills and experiences would make an ideal candidate for the position? This is a great open-ended question that will have the interviewer put his or her cards on the table and state exactly what the employer is looking for. If the interviewer mentions something you didn’t cover yet, now is your chance.

• What is the single largest problem facing your staff and would I be in a position to help you solve this problem?   This question not only shows that you are immediately thinking about how you can help the team, it also encourages the interviewer to envision you working at the position.

• What have you enjoyed most about working here? This question allows the interviewer to connect with you on a more personal level, sharing his or her feelings. The answer will also give you unique insight into how satisfied people are with their jobs there. If the interviewer has difficulty answering the question, it can be a big red flag.

• What defines success at this position and company? This question shows your interest in being successful there and the answer will show you how to get ahead and whether it is a good fit for you.

• Do you have any hesitations about my qualifications or experience? It is a gutsy question and shows that you’re confident in your skills and abilities. This also opens the door for you to better explain any area where there might be hesitation.

• Do you offer continuing education and professional training? This is a great positioning question, showing that you are interested in expanding your knowledge and ultimately growing with the employer.

• Can you tell me about the team I’ll be working with? Notice how the question is phrased; it assumes you will get the job. This question also tells you about the people you will interact with on a daily basis, so listen to the answer closely.

• What can you tell me about your new products/services and plans for growth? This question should be customized for your particular needs. Do your homework on the employer’s site beforehand and mention a new product or service it’s launching to demonstrate your research and interest. The answer to the question will give you a good idea of where the employer is headed.

• Who previously held this position? This seemingly straightforward question will tell you whether that person was promoted or fired or if he/she quit or retired. The answer will provide a clue insight about, chances for advancement, employees are unhappy, the place is in turmoil etc.

• What is the next step in the process? This is the essential last question and one you should definitely ask. It shows that you’re interested in moving along in the process and invites the interviewer to tell you how many people are in the running for the position.

• I am very interested in the role and would like to move forward in the process. What have we not discussed today that would convince you that I am the best choice for the role?