Transitioning to a new job is a significant step in one's career, demanding careful consideration and thorough evaluation. For candidates looking to make a well-informed decision, the interview process offers a prime opportunity to assess whether a potential job and employer align with their professional aspirations and personal values.

This article provides a short guide to some questions that could be asked during interviews to gain better insights into the company culture, role expectations, and overall fit.

 

Role clarification and expectations

• Context: Why is this position available? Is this a new role or will I be taking over from someone who is leaving? How will the handover happen?
• What are the key responsibilities of this position?
• How does this role contribute to the overall goals of the company?
• Can you walk me through a typical day or week in this role?
• What are the first projects that will need to be addressed?
• Can you show me examples of projects I’d be working on?
• What are the objectives for the first 6 months? How about the long-term ones?
• What obstacles might I face in this position?
• What type of support does the company offer for overcoming these challenges?

Performance and advancement

• What qualities are essential for someone to excel in this role?
• What metrics or objectives will be used to assess my performance?
• How and how often are performance reviews conducted?
• How has this position evolved since it was created?
• What is the typical career path for someone in this role? / Where have employees who were successful in this position advanced to next?
• What are the challenges the preceding person in this role faced?

Team dynamics and support

• Can you tell me about the team I’ll be working with?
• Who will I report to directly?
• How is feedback given here?
• What are the team’s greatest strengths and most significant challenges?
• What are the common attributes of top performers here?
• How would you characterize the work environment? Is the work primarily collaborative or rather more independent?
• What is the turnover rate in the team, and what are the main reasons for it?

Company stability and growth prospects

• What are the company’s growth plans for the next five years?
• How has the company evolved over the past few years?
• What are the biggest risks facing the company right now?
• What excites you the most about the future of the company?
• Can you describe any recent products or services that have been launched?
• How does the company stay ahead of industry trends and changes?
• Can you provide examples of how the company has successfully overcome challenges in the past?
• What is the company's main focus for the next year, and how does this role contribute to that focus?
• Does the company encourage innovation? How?

Work environment and tools

• What tools and technology will be available to me for executing my duties?
• What are some of the recent investments in technology or infrastructure that the company has made?
• What’s the company’s policy on remote work or flexible hours?
• What office facilities are available to employees?
• What types of collaborative tools are used within the company?
• How are project and task management handled within the company and by this team?

Understanding the company's culture and values

• What do employees enjoy most about working here?
• What are some of the company's traditions or team events?
• Could you share details about the last company event you all attended together?
• What is the office tradition you enjoy the most?
• What are the main factors influencing employees to remain at or depart from this company?
• How would you describe the people that are most fit here?
• How does the company support professional development and continuous learning?
• What is the company’s policy on work-life balance?
• How does the company handle conflicts or disagreements within teams?
• What channels are available for employees to express their concerns or suggestions?
• What steps has the company taken recently to improve employee satisfaction and retention?

These questions are designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the position, the team, the company's operations, and its culture. A thoughtful inquiry during an interview can give candidates a clearer picture of what to expect and help them decide if the opportunity aligns with their professional goals and personal values. Thus, asking the right questions during an interview can demonstrate the candidate’s enthusiasm and commitment to the role, but most importantly it will ensure they make a knowledgeable decision about their next career move.