Eight Questions to Ask that Hiring Managers Love

If you remember your last interview, you were probably subject to the trials of the archetypal interview. The welcoming offer of coffee or water. Inquiries into your past work experience and quantifiable accomplishments. The standard behavioral interviewing questions. And of course, the portion toward the end of the interview when your potential employer asks if you have any questions for him or her.

For some, that might be a welcome indication that the interview is winding down. For others, it’s an opportunity to impress your interviewer and demonstrate that you are the right candidate for the job!

We asked some of our hiring managers and recruiters what questions they were asked by candidates that stood out to them in interviews here at Citizens. Take a look at the top eight they shared.

1. What stood out on my resume that you think makes me a good fit?
Inquiring what specifically got you this interview is a great way to probe into some of your skills or experience that caught the eye of your interviewer. It can also help focus the session on those impressive or quantifiable accomplishments that you have listed.

2. How long have you worked for the company, and what do you like and dislike about working here?
Hiring managers and recruiters are some of the best individuals to ask about personal experiences with the company. It’s interesting to hear their unique take on their profession and their perspective on strengths and weaknesses. Plus, asking your interviewer about him or herself makes the dialogue more conversational.

3. Can you describe in more detail about the group/team I will be joining? What is it like to work on [team name]?
This is a great way to learn about the team dynamic and if it will suit your method of working. Is it an open, collaborative environment with frequent team huddles? Or do team members put their heads down and focus on individual production?

4. Can you share some background as to why this role is open? Is it replacing someone or is it a new role, etc.?
Recruiters love when candidates ask why the role is vacant. It shows an eagerness to learn more about the position, the team and the circumstances (good or bad) around the opening.

5. What might a career path look like for someone in this role within your organization?
It’s a good idea to express interest in career trajectory and opportunities for growth that can arise from the position. It proves to your interviewer you are viewing the role as a career, not just a job.

6. What does success look like in this role after the first 30 days, 60 days and year? How will I be evaluated against the expectations that are set?
This question gives you a better idea of what you will be expected to accomplish in the given timeframes, should you be hired. Note what these are and if you believe you will be able to meet them.

7. What excites you about the direction your company is going? Are there any initiatives or changes in this year and beyond that you are looking forward to?
This challenges your interviewer to describe what specifically the company is doing to grow in the future. If the response is cogent or well-articulated, it’s usually a good indication that the company has a clear vision for how it will achieve success.

8. *Any question that indicates you have done a little bit of homework about the company*
Something like “How will your recent acquisition of Johnson Manufacturing affect your operations moving into next year?” or “What is your company doing to compensate for higher rates that are trending in the industry?” demonstrate you’ve researched the company and are interested in the position.

Learn about our open opportunities at Citizens and how you can apply to become part of our top team today.