A tech job interview is stressful for anyone, no matter how long you’ve worked in the tech industry. And while you're busy showcasing your skills and experience for a job interviewer, don’t’ forget: this is a two-way street. Asking insightful questions demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and the company, and ultimately helps you decide if this opportunity is the right fit.
But what questions should you ask? Here’s a handy tip sheet that could help:
Questions About the Role
Your interviewer’s answers to these questions can yield useful information about the job itself. You’ll know more about what’s expected of you, as well as the daily workflow:
- What are the biggest challenges the person in this role will face? (Reason to ask: Gauges expectations and highlights your problem-solving skills.)
- Can you walk me through a typical day for someone in this position? (Reason to ask: Visualizes responsibilities and assesses alignment with your preferences.)
- What specific metrics will be used to evaluate my performance? (Reason to ask: Clarifies expectations and sets you up for success.)
- Are there opportunities for cross-functional collaboration within this role? (Reason to ask: Indicates potential learning and growth, along with showcasing your desire for teamwork.)
- Does this position have a defined career path within the company? (Reason to ask: Shows future-oriented thinking, and lets you gauge the growth potential of the role.)
Questions About Company Culture
Figuring out whether a company culture aligns with your own values is critical; if you don’t like going to work every day, the job will quickly become a drag. Here are some questions that will give you some crucial insight into how a potential employer builds and maintains its culture.
- How would you describe the company culture in three words? (Reason to ask: Gives a quick vibe check, helps assess potential fit.)
- What are some recent initiatives the company has taken to promote employee well-being? (Reason to ask: Highlights company values, reveals priorities beyond profits… unless you’re only concerned about profits, of course.)
- Can you tell me about the team I'd be working with? (Reason to ask: Provides insight into potential colleagues, assesses collaboration potential.)
- What opportunities are there for professional development and training? (Reason to ask: Indicates the company's commitment to your growth, reveals learning resources)
- How does the company encourage work-life balance? (Reason to ask: Ensures alignment with your personal needs, avoids potential burnout)
Questions About Compensation
For many tech professionals, compensation is absolutely critical. While you don’t necessarily want to get into an in-depth discussion about salary before a potential employer puts an offer on the table, learning more about its compensation policy and structure can prove illuminating.
- Can you share the salary range for this position? (Reason to ask: Transparency is key, ensures realistic expectations before accepting.)
- What are the typical benefits offered to employees in this role? (Reason to ask: Compares total compensation package, assesses alignment with your needs.)
- What is the timeline for the hiring process and next steps? (Reason to ask: Manages expectations, allows for proactive follow-up.)
- Is there anything else you'd like to know from me at this stage? (Reason to ask: Shows proactiveness and willingness to address concerns.)
Asking questions during your interview demonstrates your interest in the position; it can convince an interviewer that you’re the right person for the role. It also empowers you to make informed decisions, especially if the interviewer gives you in-depth answers.
Before heading into any interview, also make sure to do your research into the company and role. Hopefully, there’s enough information out there to answer at least some of your questions. But if you have any gaps in your knowledge, don’t be afraid to ask the interviewer.
