Asking thoughtful questions at the end of your interview is a powerful way to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role.
While there are many interview question examples available online, our expertise as recruitment consultants offers unique insights into what employers truly seek during interviews. Beyond possessing the in-demand technical skills, employers also prioritise finding the right cultural fit.
Curious about the best questions to ask at the end of a job interview? Our consultants share their top 5 interview questions:
Questions To Ask At The End Of An Interview
1. What reading or research can I do between now and the next stage to help me get ahead of the other candidates?
This interview question demonstrates your enthusiasm, commitment, and proactive approach to the job interview process. It conveys your willingness to invest your own time, which is highly regarded by employers, as it indicates a strong work ethic.
By mentioning “getting ahead of other candidates,” you demonstrate your competitive spirit and desire to outperform expectations. This can align with employers seeking candidates with a drive to excel.
Ultimately, this question can provide you with critical information and resources that other candidates may not receive. It allows you to tailor your preparation based on the interviewer’s recommendations and enhance your candidacy.
2. What makes your most successful employee stand out from the others?
This is a great follow up interview question is that it provides an opportunity to understand what qualities and attributes are valued as an employee. Furthermore, it gives you an understanding of what the organisation considers key indicators of success. This will help to manage expectations stepping in to the role.
However, it’s important to ask this question in a respectful and curious manner. You’re seeking information rather than challenging the interviewer. Be prepared to listen actively to the response and consider if these align with your own skills, values and goals.
3. What metrics or goals will my performance be evaluated against?
Asking about performance metrics shows your commitment to understanding the expectations. It shows that you are results-oriented and eager to contribute to the company’s success.
It also provides clarity on what is expected from you in the role regarding job responsibilities and performance criteria.
4. What are the team’s current biggest challenges or skill gaps?
Interviewers often appreciate candidates who engage in a dialogue rather than just answering questions. This question opens the door for a meaningful conversation about integration, collaboration and overcoming barriers.
Understanding the team’s challenges and skill gaps helps you identify ways you can make an immediate impact, if hired.
The response can provide insights into the company’s culture regarding transparency and problem-solving, and help you gauge your excitement about the prospect of working on solutions to those challenges.
5. What are the companies biggest goals?
Employers often prefer individuals who are committed to their organisation’s growth, so this is a good question to end on.
Build positive rapport by discussing the company’s long-term goals and how your skills and experience contribute to achieving those goals.
This interview question also leaves you with some food for thought:
Are the company’s goals realistic? If the company has ambitious goals, it may indicate room for personal and professional growth. Although it’s great to be ambitious, the goal must be achievable as unrealistic goals can amount to added pressure in the workplace.
Are their goals are in sync with yours? It’s a positive indicator that you’ll be a good fit for the organisation if the company’s goals are similar to yours. Look for common ground and shared values that can serve as a strong foundation for job satisfaction.
As company priorities and circumstances evolve, be willing to adjust your personal goals to ensure continued alignment. Flexibility is key to long-term alignment with the changing needs of the business.