6 interview questions

6 interview questions that will make any employer want to hire you

It is commonly understood that during an interview, both potential employer and interviewee are imagining a good fit.

While salary ranges, benefits, and schedule flexibility are important details you deserve answers to, hiring managers don’t appreciate questions like those until at least your second interview (or maybe even after they make you an offer).

Here are six questions to ask at the end of your interview that will help you master the twisted tango of getting hired.

01 “If I were to start tomorrow, what would be the top priority on my to-do list?”
The answer to this question will give you more insight into the current state of the position while showing you’re invested in learning how you can start things off with a bang.

The added bonus lies in the Jedi mind trick: You already have your interviewer picturing you as the position holder.

02 “What would you say are the top two personality traits someone needs to perform this job well?”
One can translate “creative” and “intuitive” to mean you will be on your own, while “patient” and “collaborative” could mean the opposite.

Not only will this question point to whether you’ll be a good fit, it will get your interviewer to look past the paper résumé and see you as an individual.

03 “What improvements or changes do you hope the new candidate will bring to this position?”
This answer can cast light on reasons why the last person lost or left the position, as well as tip you off on the path to success. Asking this shows an employer you are eager to be the best candidate to ever fill this position.

04 “I know this company prides itself on X and Y, so what would you say is the most important aspect of your culture?”
This question is sure to impress. It shows you researched the company, and gives you a chance to gain insight into what values the company holds highest.

05 “Do you enjoy working here?”
The interviewer’s answer will be telling: A good sign will be a confident smile and an enthusiastic “yes,” paired with an explanation as to why. Consider it a red flag if he shifts in his seat, looks away, coughs and starts with “Well…”

Employers appreciate the chance to reflect on their own opinions, and it turns the interview process into more of a conversation.

06 “Is there anything that might indicate that I might not be the right fit for this job?”
Asking this question can be scary, but also beneficial. Not only does it give you a chance to redeem any hesitations the employer might have about you, it demonstrates you can accept constructive criticism and are eager to improve. These are valuable qualities in any candidate.

What other questions wow interviewers?

This story, written by Kelly Gregorio, first ran on PR Daily.