Good interview questions can tell a lot about the person asking them. The most telling moments of an interview often come at the end when the tables are turned, and the candidate has a chance to ask a few questions. These interview questions provide valuable insight into how the candidate prepared for your meeting and where their priorities lie.

Where is the person who last held this job? What are they doing now?

This question is about career development; your candidate is wondering where this job is leading. Career development is a key motivator for candidates seeking new roles. Someone who asks this question is telling you they are looking for longevity with a company.

How you should answer: honestly. Hopefully, there’s a positive story to go along with the position you’re looking to fill. But regardless of the actual reason the vacancy came to be, never misrepresent the situation to a potential employee.

A question that shows they’ve been listening during the interview.

Listening is a value that cannot be underestimated. Too often interviewees have prepared questions they rattle off at the end of the interview, in an attempt to look good without too much effort. A relevant question, based on information provided during the interview, shows the candidate has been actively listening; it says they’re curious and invested in the process.

How you should answer: The actual answer isn’t primary focus here. What’s more important is the candidate has demonstrated an ability to listen and process information, forming a pertinent question as a result.

Can you tell me about the biggest challenges associated with this job?

The best candidates want to know what they’re getting into and how best to prepare for upcoming challenges. However, this question tells you even more; this candidate is digging beneath the surface of your company to gain a greater understanding.

How you should answer: Your ability to speak critically and professionally will be vital. What you choose to say here will speak volumes about your company’s culture, in addition to providing your candidate with greater insight into the expectations of the role.

Remember, interview questions asked by a candidate primarily convey two main things:

• Has the candidate done any actual research into the company or the role?

• Are they taking this job interview seriously?

The decision to accept a new job is a big moment for both candidate and company. If the person you’re considering isn’t going to put some effort into interview preparation, how will they perform on the job?

Interviews are most effective when they contain elements of a two-way conversation, with both sides asking questions and getting a good sense of one other.

Are you having difficulty with a job vacancy you’re actively trying to fill? Reach out to the experienced team at Morris Bixby; we’ll help you find your next top performer.