Ask these 4 questions to stand out in your next job interview

You've secured an interview for the perfect role- go you! But how can you stand out against your competition? Impress the panel and prove the job should be yours with these four questions.

“What does the company want to achieve over the next 12 months?” Want to show dedication and drive? This is a great way to demonstrate these traits. Ask about the future of the business to prove to the panel that you’re forward thinking. It also suggests that you are invested in the company and its success. Every employer wants their staff to take an interest in the business and its goals, so demonstrating this from the get-go is sure to tick boxes! This question is a great way for you to find out more about the business too. It can help you understand their future goals and will help you decide whether you can see yourself contributing towards these goals. It'll help you decide whether your ambitions and those of the business align. Remember, the panel may be interviewing you but you are alsointerviewing them. It’s important that the business is the right fit for you, too! 

“Are there opportunities for growth and career progression?”

If you’re set on showcasing your ambition, then this question is one to add to your list. Ask about opportunities to show you are keen to develop and grow. This is something that will impress many employers. Interview panels want candidates that have done their research and have a clear interest in the company and its success. Taking an interest in your professional growth, and that of the business, will let them know that you’re in it for the long haul. 

“What are the company's biggest challenges?”

Every business has it’s battles. Acknowledge this and it’ll let the panel know you’re up for a challenge. Ultimately, businesses want employees that will add value. Take an interest in the company’s current challenges to set yourself apart from your competition. Doing this will position you as a problem solver and someone who wants to initiate change. Again, this question is a good way for you to find out more about the business and the challenges it is facing. You can then decide whether your skills and experience suit the needs of the business, and whether the challenge is something you’d like to take on! 

“How would you describe the company culture?”

‘Culture’ has become a bit of a recruitment buzzword over the last few years, and for good reason. It’s often high up in the list of considerations for candidates, and employers are starting to take note. As of July 2023, the average weekly number of hours worked by full-time employees in the UK was 36.4 hours. We spend so much of our lives at work so it’s important to choose a workplace that makes you feel happy and fulfilled. Company culture is so much more than bean bags and pizza on a Friday. It’s the beliefs and collective attitudes that shape an organisation. A good culture allows you to share your opinions and ideas in relation to the company, and makes you feel valued and respected. There are lots of ways a business can create a good working culture. It's worth asking what steps they’ve put in place to create a positive working environment. 

In summary

We get it, interviews can be daunting. Yes, the panel are there to find out more about you but it’s also your chance to find out more about the company. Use your interview to find out whether the business suits you. Will the role challenge you? Do the company’s values align with yours? An interview is your opportunity to show off your skills but remember, the company needs to be right for you, too. Now, go and impress! Good luck! 

Head over to our blog for more career and recruitment tips. If you’d like to add some personality to your CV, we’ve got you. Or find out how you can build yourself back up after a difficult interview.