When you’re going for job interviews one of the most challenging aspects of the interview process can be when they ask near the end “Have you any questions?”. It’s important that you are well prepared and have a list of questions to ask an interviewer. This is still a key part of the interview and gives candidates the opportunity to demonstrate additional knowledge, show your commitment to the job and clarify issues that matter to you.

When it comes to thinking about questions to ask an interviewer, there are four common mistakes that candidates make at this stage. 1) Poor questions – some candidates simply don’t prepare properly and ask meaningful questions. 2) No questions - This is an interview faux pas because it looks as if you’re not interested in the job. 3) Questions already answered - sometimes candidates don’t ask questions saying that they have already been answered but that is also is unlikely to impress the job interviewer. 4) Making questions up at the last moment: Of course there are some questions that may have occurred to your during the interview but you should always have a list of questions to ask an interviewer so that you have some different options.

So where should you start in compiling a list of questions to ask an interviewer? Make sure that you have done your research about the company and about the role. if you don’t feel that you have enough information ring up HR (Human Resources) Department or Manager and ask. It is by looking through all the information that you have that you will be able to start compiling your list. Remember that this is an opportunity to ask questions that will show you at your best. There are some classic questions that people often ask (and these are fine) but you can differentiate yourself from other candidates by asking some that are more challenging. Obviously the type of role and the level will have an impact on the type of questions that you might ask.

Examples of questions to ask an interviewer

1. ‘In what way would my performance be measured and reviewed.’ This type of question is important because it shows that you’re aware of the importance of results and you will be looking at your own performance as well as expecting other people to monitor it.

2. ‘What types of training opportunities will there be?’ This classic question shows that you are someone who is keen to stay up- to- date and add value to the company by gaining additional skills.

3. ‘What chances are there for promotion in the future’ Never ask this classic question as the first question or it can sound as if you’re only looking to jump to the next level. On the other hand it can show that you’re somebody who has the ambition to go further and that also you’re looking to develop your career within the organisation in the long term.

4. Does the job role have any pressing concerns that you’ll need me to tackle as soon as I start? This type of question is only used if you think there may be other things that haven’t already been mentioned

5. Can you please clarify the structure of the company and how this role fits into it? This gives the interviewer an opportunity to expand on any information you haven't yet heard and it also demonstrates that you're interested in being part of a team.

6. In your opinion, what is the most important attribute / achievement / quality you would like to see from me within my trial period? This type of question forces the interviewer to focus on you and your qualities as well as providing you with an opportunity to remind them of the skills you have.

7. Do you have any doubts about whether I am suited to this position? Okay, not everyone is going to be comfortable asking a question like this. However, don’t dismiss this type of question as a possibility. It's a way of emphasising some of your strengths and it also suggests that you are open to constructive criticism. It also provides you with an opportunity to address any issues or weaknesses that the interviewer may think you have.

These are just 7 examples of questions you could ask an interviewer. There are many more options and you need to plan for ones that are appropriate for the job you are applying to. Whatever questions you ask, make sure they are questions that you can use to your advantage and demonstrate why you are the ideal candidate for the job. You want to avoid making any of the common mistakes in a job interview.