Change the dynamic in your interviews to gain the upper hand!

Here are the best questions to ask when you are in the spotlight at interviews:

“A diamond is a chunk of coal that is made good under pressure”– Henry A Kissinger

Do you feel intense pressure when under the spotlight in interviews? Do you struggle when the tables are turned and they ask if you have any questions? 

As a career coach, I have mentored many people who have struggled in interviews. Through my program of bespoke interview training, I encourage my clients to have a list of questions up their sleeve before entering an interview. 

The main purpose of the questions that I suggest to my clients are to allow the interviewee to change the dynamic of the interview by asking considered, concise questions. However, it also allows interviewees to alleviate the pressure on themselves, even if it is to divert attention for a few minutes whilst they compose themselves. I consider these to be invaluable interview tips for graduates and those looking for a job change

Here are my top 5 questions to ask in an interview:

1) Demonstrate that you are professional and diligent:

What will the short to medium term objectives be in this role?

2) Show that you are personable and interested in their experience at the company:

What do you particularly like about working here?

3) Highlight that you are a team player and that you are keen to understand the company on a more human level:

How would you describe the culture here and what is the team structure? 

4) Showcase your achievements and experience once they have answered the question below – by giving an example of how you have overcome this in the past:

What would you expect the most challenging part of this role to be?

5) If you feel that it is appropriate, at the end of an interview give yourself one last opportunity to impress your interviewer. By asking this question you may be able to lessen any concerns that they might have about you and therefore increase your chance of success:

Having met me and seen my CV do you have any reservations about my ability to do the job?