Sometimes, the hardest part of an interview is when you (the interviewee) are asked to switch roles and become the interviewer. Interviews almost always end with the interviewer asking the candidate if he/she has any questions. Of course, they don't want you to ask the questions you actually want to know the answers to - like how much will I be making in this role, or how often do you hold office happy hours?
In all seriousness, you need to have a prepared list of questions that you can tailor for each of your interviewers. On top of that, you need to find the perfect balance: too few questions, and you seem unengaged, but with too many questions, you may seem annoying. Remember, the interviewer essentially wants to know whether or not you've done your research on the position, team, and company, so you should be comfortable asking specific questions.
Try incorporating the questions below into your next interview. But do your research first - great questions don't matter if you get the position title or company name wrong.
1. What do you see as the major strengths and challenges facing the company today?
2. What skills or traits do those who excel here have in common?
3. Do you have any concerns about my background or experiences?
4. What do you envision for the future of the team and how does this role contribute to that?
5. What do you see as the unique opportunities and threats for the company and how does this team address them?
6. What has been the biggest challenge or adjustment for people when they first come into this role?
7. Can you tell me about your background and what brought you to this company?
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