Most students go for job interviews with the intent of answering questions correctly having prepared adequately. This is very important but that’s not all you’ll need to prepare for. The opportunity will usually present itself for international students to ask hiring managers questions during the interview as well. Can you do this successfully?
We’re aware of the importance of being able to ask brilliant questions at interviews. It gives the impression that you are thorough, dedicated and prepared. So, we’re here to provide a guide to help you; take a good look at these sample questions:
- Why did you select my resume?
- What is the biggest challenge of the company or department?
- What are the expectations of this job?
- What are the company’s plans for the next 5 or 10 years?
- Are there any signs in the resume that may indicate that I’m unsuitable for this job?
- Who are the company’s top competitors?
- Are there opportunities for personal development?
- Can you show me around the building?
Let’s find out why these questions are relevant, shall we?
1. Why did you select my resume?
This question encourages the recruiter to point out the good qualities of your resume and qualifications. It can also move the recruiter to give you insightful tips and career advice that will be useful even beyond this job.
2. What is the biggest challenge of the company or department?
Organizations hire primarily because there’s a problem that needs to be solved. It is, therefore, very important to find out what the challenges are as well as map out possible solutions in your mind. The answer to this question will most likely be insightful and will reveal how your skills or qualifications can strategically resolve the company’s problem.
3. What are the expectations of this role?
Questions like this help you to know if this is the kind of job that is well suited for your qualifications or not. It also gives you insight into the day to day activities of the job and the results you’re expected to deliver. This is one of the most brilliant questions international students should ask hiring managers.
4. What are the company’s plans for the next 5 or 10 years?
Because you intend to work here, wouldn’t you want to know how committed the company is to growth and innovation? Asking this question will help you better understand the plan as well as show your willingness to maintain a long-term relationship with the company.
5. Are there any signs that may indicate that I am unsuitable for the job?
At this point, you want to give the impression that as a serious job seeker, you are prepared and willing to correct mistakes. Note that the answer to this question will point out red flags in your resume and indicate where corrections need to be made.
6. Who are the company’s top competitors?
With this question, you reveal your interest in knowing how the company stands out in the market and industry. It is advised that you do some research concerning this before the interview to have an idea. By answering this question, hiring managers arm you with rare information about the company, the industry and their future.
7. Are there opportunities for personal development?
As an employee, you have the right to want to know what efforts the organization/firm would make towards your development. This is because, if you remain the way you are for long, you may lose your position to another. So, ask to know if/how they’ll help you add more value to yourself. As a win-win, the organization stands to gain from your proficiency.
8. Can you show me around the building?
Interestingly, this request communicates your enthusiasm to the hiring manager. It creates a rare and unique experience that other candidates may not have with the hiring manager. It is also an opportunity to relate and interact better and more informally so don’t forget to ask.
It is common for hiring managers to ask the bulk of questions at job interviews but as an international student, learn to ask brilliant questions when given the opportunity.