At Automotive Mentoring Group (AMG), we emphasize not only preparing our participants with technical skills but also equipping them with the life skills they need to succeed in the workforce. One of the most critical steps in landing a job is mastering the interview process. While many focus on how to answer questions effectively, a lesser-known key to interview success is learning how to ask the right questions.
When you ask thoughtful questions during an interview, it shows employers that you're genuinely interested, engaged, and serious about the opportunity. Here's how to approach this critical skill and some examples to get you started.
Why Asking Questions Matters
Employers aren’t just evaluating your skills—they’re assessing how well you’ll fit into their team and culture. Asking questions:
Demonstrates your enthusiasm for the role.
Shows you’ve done your homework on the company.
Helps you decide if this is the right job for you.
At AMG, we encourage participants to think of interviews as a two-way street. You’re not just there to impress; you’re there to learn, too.
The Questions You Should Ask
1. Questions About the Role
Asking about the job itself shows you’re interested in what you’ll be doing day-to-day. Consider questions like:
"What does a typical day in this role look like?"
"What are the immediate priorities for this position?"
"What are the biggest challenges someone in this role might face?"
These questions demonstrate curiosity and a proactive mindset.
2. Questions About the Company
Digging deeper into the company’s goals and values can help you align your skills with their needs. Try asking:
"What are the company’s goals for the next year, and how does this role contribute to achieving them?"
"What do you enjoy most about working here?"
"How does the company support employee growth and development?"
This not only gives you insight into the workplace culture but also shows that you care about being a valuable team member.
3. Questions About the Team
Understanding the dynamics of the team you’d be joining can be crucial. Good options include:
"Can you tell me about the team I’d be working with?"
"How does the team typically collaborate on projects?"
"What’s the management style here?"
These questions help you assess if the work environment fits your personality and work style.
4. Questions About the Next Steps
End the interview on a strong note by clarifying the hiring process. Ask:
"What are the next steps in the interview process?"
"When can I expect to hear back from you?"
"Is there anything else you need from me to move forward?"
These questions show you’re organized and eager to follow up.
Questions to Avoid
While asking questions is essential, some can leave the wrong impression. Avoid:
Asking about salary, benefits, or vacation time too early. Save these for when you’re further along in the process.
Questions you could easily find the answers to on the company’s website.
Vague or overly broad questions like, "What does the company do?"
Building Confidence in Interviews
At AMG, we coach our participants to enter interviews with confidence and curiosity. Remember: a job interview is as much about finding the right fit for you as it is about impressing the employer. By asking the right questions, you’ll demonstrate your professionalism and make a lasting impression.
If you’re looking for support in building your career skills, AMG is here to help. From training in technical skills to interview preparation, we’re dedicated to setting our participants up for success. Together, we’re not just rebuilding cars—we’re rebuilding lives.
