Essential Questions for Job Interview Success

During the selection process, a job interview is an opportunity not only for the recruiter to get to know the candidate better, but also for the candidate to assess whether the vacancy and the company are suitable for their career goals. 

In a dynamic job interview, although most candidates are only concerned with answering the recruiter's questions, asking questions can be an effective way of showing interest and obtaining crucial information about the position and the working environment. 

In this article, we look at the importance of asking the recruiter questions during a job interview, with examples and strategies relating to the area of finance and accounting. 

Understanding the importance of questions during an interview: 

Why it's essential to ask questions during a job interview 

Asking questions during an interview demonstrates a genuine interest in the job and the company. It's also an opportunity to clarify doubts and to see if the position matches your expectations. By asking intelligent questions, you are showing the recruiter that you are well prepared and that you care about your professional future. What's more, questions help you obtain information that can be decisive in making an informed decision about the position you're applying for. 

What types of questions are appropriate to ask? 

Questions about the job 

Questions about the role are essential to ensure that you fully understand the responsibilities of the position and the challenges you may face. This helps to align your expectations and check that the job matches your skills and ambitions. 

Examples of questions about the role: 

• ‘What will be the main responsibilities of this position on a day-to-day basis?’ 

• ‘What are the biggest challenges that the person occupying this position will face?’ 

• ‘Are there opportunities for growth and development within the role?’ 

These questions reveal a candidate who is committed to understanding the job and how they can excel. 

Questions about the company 

Understanding the company is crucial, especially in specialised sectors such as finance and accounting. Asking about the company's vision, objectives and strategy will help you understand how you can integrate into the team and contribute to its long-term success. 

Examples of questions about the company: 

• ‘How has the company evolved in recent years?’ 

• ‘What are the company's main objectives for the coming year?’ 

• ‘How has the company adapted to changes in the financial market?’ 

These questions help to show that you are interested in the long-term success of the company, not just the immediate position. 

Questions about the team and the company culture 

Team dynamics and organisational culture can have a big impact on your work experience. Asking about these topics will allow you to better understand the working environment and whether it is compatible with your values and working style. 

Examples of questions about the team and the company culture: 

• ‘How is the finance and accounting team structured?’ 

• ‘How does the company promote collaboration and teamwork?’ 

• ‘What are the main values that guide the company culture?’ 

Questions like these help you assess the dynamics of the work environment and whether it fits in with your desired professional future. 

What types of questions should you avoid during an interview? 

Not all questions are appropriate for a job interview. Some may be perceived as uninteresting or even inappropriate. Here are some examples of questions to avoid: 

Examples of inappropriate or premature questions: 

• ‘What is the salary for this position?’ (Unless the recruiter mentions it first, avoid focusing too much on compensation in the first phase of the interview) 

• ‘How much holiday can I take?’ (Instead, ask about the holiday policy at the end of the interview, when relevant) 

• ‘Does the company offer employee benefits?’ (This type of question can be interpreted as a greater interest in benefits than in the responsibilities of the position) 

Depending on the moment of the interview and the way they are asked, these questions can give the impression that the candidate is more interested in secondary aspects than in the job itself. 

How to prepare and ask questions during an interview 

Preparing questions 

To get the most out of your interview, prepare some questions in advance. It's important to choose questions that show genuine interest in the position and the company. Preparing for this moment is fundamental, as it is one of the key moments for conveying an image of professionalism and interest. 

How to ask questions effectively 

During the interview, questions should be asked clearly and objectively. Avoid interrupting the interviewer and try to choose the right moment to ask your questions - usually at the end of the interview, when the recruiter asks if there are any doubts. In addition, interviewees should pay special attention to the answers they give, as these can lead to new questions or valuable information. 

Additional tips for a successful interview 

A job interview is a two-way process, meaning that while the candidate is being assessed, they also have the opportunity to evaluate whether the company is suitable for their objectives. As well as preparing good questions, it's important to adopt a strategic approach throughout the interview. Here are some tips that can help you succeed in this approach: 

• Research the company: Before the interview, take the time to research the company, its culture, mission and the challenges of the sector. This will help you formulate more specific questions and demonstrate your genuine interest. 

• Be punctual and professional: Arrive early, dress appropriately and maintain a professional attitude. The first impression counts for a lot and can influence those on the other side towards a favourable final assessment. 

• Be clear and concise: When answering the recruiter's questions, be direct and avoid excessively long answers. Knowing how to communicate will always be a point in your favour. 

• Listen carefully: Pay attention to the recruiter's answers, as they may lead to new questions or provide important insights into the vacancy and the company. 

• Show enthusiasm and interest: Show enthusiasm for the job and the opportunity, without showing anxiety or even desperation. The balance between genuine interest and confidence is key. 

• With these points in mind, you'll be better prepared for a successful interview, increasing your chances of being chosen for the job you want. 

Are you ready for your next interview?

If you're looking for a job in finance or accounting, our specialised recruitment team is here to help you find your ideal position. Fill in your spontaneous application form and let us support your professional journey! 

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