“Do you have any questions for me?”

There are a few things you can be sure of experiencing during your interviewing process and one of them is hearing this question.

There are more opportunities available to us now than there are people to fill them. So now’s a great time to “flip the script” and interview the companies you’re considering. Here are our tips for simple questions to ask that may help you decide if that job opportunity at that company is aligned with your values and career path.

1. Tell me about a “rock star” on your team why they are successful here.

The answer to this question will give you insight into exactly what YOU will need to do to be viewed as successful by this manager. It’ll also help you understand the manager’s values, and what they think is important.

2. What does the onboarding experience look like for this role? Who would I interact with to help me get up to speed?

If you’re someone who looks for structure and process, the answer to this question can be very telling about what formal and informal processes are in place to help you get oriented, settled into the new role, and begin building relationships with your co-workers and across the organization.

3. What are the career paths at the company that this position may lead to?

It is obviously important for a position to have upward momentum. You want to know that you can work hard and be met with a deserved promotion. However, it’s even more enticing to know you may have several options in a career path based on your interests with a company that is willing to develop you.

4. Is there anything about my experience or background that leaves you questioning hiring me?

This question will give you the opportunity to hear what yellow flags may be raised in your interviewer’s mind and then allow you a chance to turn them green. They could be concerned about a career gap but it hasn’t been brought up in the conversation yet, now you will get a chance to give some insight.

5. What about the company’s future are you most excited about?

This will give you some insight into the direction the company is headed as well as give you an opportunity to provide more examples of why you would be a good fit. Perhaps they are heading towards an IPO or opening a new branch later this year. If you have experience in these areas you can let them know that you will be able to bring insight with you when you are hired.

6. How/why did this role open up?

This question will leave you with a few pieces of knowledge. If this was opened due to growth or internal promotion you can draw a conclusion that the company works to develop their employees and you will have room to grow. If the position opened due to someone leaving the company, you can ask more about the reasoning and draw some insight into if it is the right fit for you.

7. What are the next steps and when can I expect to hear from you?

By asking this question you will know when is the appropriate time to follow up with a company if you haven’t heard back. If you hear a decision will be made by the end of the week, and the time comes and goes, send an email to check-in. Be sure to send a thank you email to your interviewer!