15 smart question to ask the hiring manager at the end of an interview
What smart questions can I ask at the end of an interview?
People may forget what you say, but will never forget how you make them feel. This is particularly important at the end of a job interview. Asking thoughtful questions at the end of your meeting, can help you connect with the hiring manager on an emotional level and allow them see you in the role.
Based on recent research I’ve done with Chief People Officers, the following questions came up as those that most impressed when hiring top talent.
Questions on strategy/future direction
- What are the biggest risks your company is facing, both internal and external? Which concerns you the most?
- What changes would you like to make in the company/department to make it more successful?
- How do you support future leaders’ development?
Questions on culture
- What’s different about working here compared to anywhere else you’ve worked?
- What do you love most about working here? What did you find most surprising about the culture when you first started?
- When you’ve done your best work here, what about the culture has enabled you to do it?
- What makes people stay at this company?
Questions on leadership style
- How would your team describe you?
- Can you tell me about someone you admire in the company and what qualities have made them successful?
- What’s the toughest feedback you’ve received and what’s the toughest feedback you’ve given?
- What have the past year’s exit interviews taught you?
- What are the struggles your team currently faces?
Questions on the role
- What qualities did you most admire in the previous person who held the role? Has the emphasis now changed/ what new qualities are now important for you?
- How do you see my role evolving as the company grows?
- What key problems do you want me to solve in the first 6 months of joining?
- Who are the key people I’ll need to know, to maximise my success?
By asking thoughtful and indeed challenging questions to the Hiring Manager at the end of a job interview, you’ll present yourself as strategically focused candidate who will be an asset to their leadership team.
About the Author
Laura McGrath is a qualified executive coach, EMCC Certified with over 20 years’ experience in executive search and recruitment. She’s the owner of Interview Techniques, a leading provider of interview and career coaching services and has been a guest lecturer with Trinity College Dublin and TU Dublin. She’s given master interview classes with Institute of Certified Public Accountants. For a consultation, please call 087 669 1192 or go to https://interviewtechniques.ie/contact/
