Most candidates find interviews nerve-wracking. But the part they feel nervous about is usually the one where technical questions are asked. Many candidates – so thrilled that the interview is finally coming to an end – forget to pay attention to the last questions that interviewers pose – “What Questions Do You Have For Us?”.

This question – while seemingly innocuous – is a question that many interviewers use to judge a candidate’s fit in the organisation.

Why is this question so important to answer?

Consider this. When does a person have questions about a particular topic, object, or experience? Well, only when someone is invested in a particular activity/occurrence do they do their research and frame questions to ask the other party.

In an interview, having a list of questions to ask the interviewer at the end of the interview indicates that:

• You’ve studied and prepared about the company and have doubts you wish to clarify.
• You are listening to what the interviewer has been saying in the interview and are responding mindfully.
• You are genuinely keen about getting a job here and want to know any information that may help you get the job.

Not having a list of questions can become problematic and may put a wrench in your job plans. But don’t worry. To help you answer this question, we’ve made a list of the 5 best responses you can have.

Top 5 questions to ask when you’re asked: “What Questions Do You Have For Us?”

Could you please describe the culture of this organisation and what’s expected from employees? 

When you ask questions about the company culture, you show the interviewer that you’re keen on assimilating yourself into the company culture. This indicates that the company may not experience a culture-fit problem with you.

What does a normal day look like in this role? 

This question indicates a genuine interest in understanding the nitty-gritty of the job. It also allows you to be prepared for the job, should you get hired.

How is success evaluated for the role I’m applying for? 

This is a really important question since it helps both you and the interviewer understand whether you will be a good fit for the role or not. The interviewer’s answer to this question will also help you understand how best to discharge your duties, so the performance evaluation technique works well for you.

What type of opportunities will be available for me to grow in this organisation? 

This question is proof that you are considering a long-term stint at the company. It shows interviewers that you want to grow in the company and you’re willing to do what’s necessary for a mutually satisfactory relationship with the company.

When asking this question, don’t just stop at promotion-related questions. But also find out about any personal development, leadership grooming, and training opportunities that you may receive.

What new initiatives are on the horizon for the organisation? 

This question can tell you whether your skills will be valued and prized high in the company in the future. It can also show the interviewer how you are keen on participating in the company’s future and helping the organisation succeed.

A few tips when responding to this interview question

• Don’t hesitate or worry that the interviewer will think you are impertinent for asking these questions. They expect you to have questions and may mark you down for not showing sufficient curiosity.
• Speak in a tone that is natural and normal for you. Feel free to rephrase the above questions in your own way. It’s important not to sound rehearsed.
• Feel free to replace any of the questions above with others that you may have. This is just a shortlist and you can ask a variety of other questions too. Here are a few more examples:

1. What, according to you, is the best part of working in this organisation?
2. Will I be allowed to meet my department head or manager before starting my job here?
3. Is this a new role? If not, does this role have high attrition? May I know why?
4. How does the team handle conflict or challenging decisions?
5. What are the next steps that you will take before a hiring decision is made? Is there anything you require from me?

• Follow a conversational tone and don’t get confrontational.
• Take your notes and list of questions to the interview and use them when asking your questions. These notes are a sign of how prepared you are.

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