Post-Divorce Job Hunt? Key Questions to Ask an Interviewer

By Tracy Achen, Divorce Transition Coach

Do you know that there are certain questions to ask during an interview that can help boost your chances of getting a job? By inquiring about the company and how you will best fit in, you are showing the employer that you are really interested in working for the organization. 

It's a good idea to do a little research on the company prior to your interview. If it's a large organization, you should be able to get a good amount information off the internet. If it's a local business, visit the location of it's a retail store, check the yellow pages for advertising, and search the newspaper archives for any mention of the business.

This research will give you an idea of what the business is about and help you discuss your position within the company. It's a good idea to be prepared with a few questions to ask the interviewer, but there will probably be additional questions that come up based on what is discussed during the interview. 

9 Questions to Ask During a Job Interview

The job interview process is a two-way street. The interviewer asks questions to see if you're a good fit for the company. But it's also your opportunity to find out if this is a company you would want to work for. In essence you're interviewing the company as much as they're interviewing you.

Depending on how the interview goes, you probably won't ask all of the questions below, but they can serve as a launching point for further discussion about the job you are applying for.

1. Why is this position open?

The answer to this question can tell you a lot. If the company is expanding, this may be a new position. Are they looking to fill the position due to a promotion within the company? If so, it shows advancement within the company is possible. If the previous employee retired after years on the job, it can be a sign this is a good company to work for. Or is the position open because the previous employee was laid off? 

2. What skills and abilities should an employee possess for this position? 

This will let you know what the company will be expecting of you if hired and if you have the necesarry skills it takes to do the job. You can also ask what tools and technologies you'll be using in your position. It also helps to find out if there is any formal company training you would go through when you start. 

3. Can you describe a typical day or week in the job? 

You want to find out what the key responsibilities and expectations of the position are. Really listen to how this question is answered, as it will tell you what you will be actually doing on the job. Also consider asking what some of the challenge of position are, which shift you'll possibly work, and whether you'll be expected to work overtime on a regular basis. 

4. How long do employees usually stay with your company?

The person interviewing you may not know the answer. But asking such a question makes an impression because it shows you are interested in working for the company long-term.

Generally, it's a good sign when people stay with the same company for at least three years. Some career fields tend to retain their employees for many years, such as the health care industry. And the retention rate for government jobs is very high.

If the organization you are interested in seems to have a high turnover rate, you might reconsider if this is the best company for you to work for.

5. What type of team will I be working with?  

The answer to this question can give you an insight into the people you will working with on a daily basis and the group dynamics and level of collaboration between team members. Hopefully, the team leader will be present during the interview process so you can detect any personality conflicts. 

6. What are some misconceptions people have about the company? 

You might start off by saying "In researching the company, I learned some of the core values your organization holds." This shows you have done your research and are willing to know more about the company. This question might also clear up any misconceptions you might have yourself about the company.

7. What is your favorite thing about working for this company? 

Your interviewer’s answer will probably tell you a lot about working there. It's a good sign if you pick up a sense of enthusiasm. But, if your interviewer is hesitant to answer, it might be worth noting. 

8. When are you looking to fill the position? 

The answer to this question will let you know when the company is really looking to fill the position. Unfortunately, some companies interview candidates in an ongoing manner. This means that they may not need you to fill an immediate position, but will call you when a position opens up.

You definitely want to find out if this is the case, especially if you'll need to put in notice at a current job. If they aren't looking to fill the position right away, you may need to continue your job search. It's better to know up front what the hiring timeline is so you can either move forward with the company or move on. 

9. Do you have any questions regarding my ability to do this job?

This will allow your interviewer to bring up any gaps in your employment history or whether you have the necessary skills for the position. Asking such a question shows you have the best interest of the company in mind.

At the end of the interview, it's a good idea to ask what the next step in the process is and when you can expect to hear from them. Also find out if they need any more information about your qualifications, such as copies of certifications or samples of your work. 

Final Thoughts

A job interview is an opportunity for the employer to get to know you better, but it’s also a great chance for you to get to know the company as well. So, make good use of this meeting and learn as much as you can about the organization and the job by asking insightful questions during your interview. 

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These suggestions on which questions to ask during an interview are just part of the equation for getting a good job. For more employment tips, check out the following articles:

Resume Tips 

Cover Letters 

Preparing for Your Interview  

Thank You Letter for Interview