Asking follow up questions can better your chances of getting hired

Why is the sky blue? A rainbow has 7 colours. Why? Why can I not see anything when the lights go off? Do you remember the time when you, as a kid, would ask numerous questions? Back then, nobody wanted to answer. Everybody would try to shut you up and ask you to play with the new car or the dollhouse a distant uncle bought for you from abroad. But there would always be an elder cousin brother or sister who would entertain your questions, sit for hours with you and explain things nobody else would. It is time to revive that spirit! 

Sitting dumb-struck in front of the interviewer and merely answering their questions, doesn’t help you bag interviews these days. Even though staying attentive is important, there is one aspect that candidates often miss out on, asking follow-up questions. It is important to shed light on your enthusiastic self in front of the recruiter and keep the conversation going. 

In case you’re struggling with the kind of questions you should ask, we are here to help you out! Below is a list of suggestions for the potential questions you can ask during an interview.

1. What are the most important qualities for this job?

A crucial question, this can help you get an idea about what expectations the company will have from you, once you’re hired. If the recruiter starts listing a few specific skills, think about the ones you have and the projects where you have showcased them. Talk about them and let the interviewer know that you’re the right individual and a good fit for the job at hand.

2. In this role, what would my career path look like?

The era that we’re living in is filled with job hoppers, the ones who like switching jobs oh-so-frequently. To reflect your interest in the job and to let the recruiter know that you’re going to be invested in the company for a long, ask this question. Once they answer, you’ll get a clear idea about the growth opportunities you’ll have in the company and the trajectory your career will follow in the near future.

3. What big projects have your team recently worked on?

Essentially, this question allows you to get an insight into the scope of work. Answers to this question will give you a better picture of how big the company is and how serious it is about the growth of the firm. You’ll also get to know about the major milestones the company has covered and what their strategic priorities are.

4. Currently, what are some of the challenges that this industry is facing?

A critical question, this can give you an idea about the places the industry is having issues in. You’ll understand more about the challenges and whether or not there are immediate solutions for the same. Apart from helping you sit for other interviews, with this question you can also tell the interviewer about your skill-sets and how they can help the company fight the current scenario better. This will give you an edge over others.

5. If hired, will I be required to work on any special software?

Generally, you’re required to be well-versed with the usage of Microsoft Office. These days, Google Docs and Google Sheets are more in business though. Apart from these, there are companies that use specially designed software for certain tasks. So, in case you are selected, you would like to have hands-on knowledge of the software the company works on to prep yourself even before you step into the company.

6. Why do you like working here?

Simple but important, asking this question has numerous benefits. As a potential employee of the said organisation, it can give you insights about the actual culture of the firm from somebody who is already a part of it. It can bring to light a number of factors which will eventually make the conversation more interesting and engaging. 

In the end, it is important to ask the recruiter about the next steps. This will give you an idea about the company’s hiring process as well as the timelines they adhere to. Asking follow-up questions not only depicts your interest in the company but also ensures that you do not miss out on vital aspects of the company. In addition, it is a great way to converse well with the recruiter, giving them the hint that you listen attentively and are curious to know more about the company. 

There can be many more follow-up questions you can ask the interviewer depending upon how your interview progresses. So, stay active and look out for opportunities you can make use of. All the best!