Questions to ask in bilingual job interviews

What Questions Should Candidates Ask in Job Interviews?

Some job interview questions are asked so frequently they have become clichéd. For example, the “what is your greatest weakness?” interview question has become the stuff of legend. In this case, how you answer the question is often more important than the answer you give, unless of course your greatest weakness is being bone idle, or having an unwavering lack of respect for authority.

Another element of the job interview that is almost guaranteed to crop up is the “so, is there anything you’d like to ask us?” question. This will usually come right at the end of the interview, just when you’re breathing a sigh of relief that the experience is nearly over. This part of the interview can often catch a candidate off guard, which is why it’s so important to prepare some questions beforehand.

Job interviews are a two-way street

It might not feel like it, but a job interview is a two-way street. You need to make sure the job is right for you, so it’s essential to find out as much as you can about the employer’s culture, working practices and opportunities for progression.

Believe it or not, the questions YOU ask during a job interview are just as important as the answers you give, as they will often reveal your motivations and what is important to you. Asking plenty of questions can also help to build a dialogue with the interviewer to help you stand out from the crowd and let your personality shine through.

Key questions to ask

You don’t need to ask all of the below, but pick at least a couple of questions based on the information that’s most important to you…

1. What do you think the biggest challenges will be for the person in this role?

This question shows that you are direct and are not afraid to tackle a problem. It will also give you some insight into the most difficult parts of the role.

2. What’s the best thing about working for the company?

This type of question can help to build a rapport with the interviewer and create a closer personal bond. Their answer should also provide real insight into what working for the company will be like.

3. In what way is performance measured and reviewed?

As a candidate you want to show that you understand the importance of delivering real results. Asking this question will show you are objective-driven and will give you valuable insight into the employer’s expectations.

4. Is there scope for promotion in the future and what training opportunities do you offer?

Both of these questions show that you’re looking to commit to the role over the longer term and hope to be able advance your skills and add value to the organisation. It also demonstrates your ambition.

5. What skills or qualities are needed to succeed in this role?

This is a great question to ask as it not only shows your ability to listen, but it also gives you an opportunity to discuss any skills you have that were not addressed in the interview.

6. As my manager, what’s your approach and how do you like to work with your staff?

At some point in our working lives most of us will have had a manager from hell. Asking this question could give you some insight into how the manager likes to work, but it will also show a willingness to fit in with the company’s culture and meet the manager’s expectations.

Need any more help?

If you’re looking for a bilingual job on the English south coast, we can help. We work with some of the best employers in the region, finding rewarding, well-paid jobs for bilingual workers across a range of sectors. Take a look at our current vacancies, send us your CV or call 02392 987 765 to discuss your requirements with our team.