The importance of questions in an interview.

Saying you have no further questions in an interview is a huge missed opportunity.

Here's why: asking relevant questions shows that someone is actively exploring and weighing up the company and the role.

It shifts the power dynamics from you being interviewed, to you interviewing the company. And it gives them a chance (or an onus) to sell themselves.

Note: you should still always be showing interest in the opportunity proactively, too.

Here are some example questions for interviewing with PR/communications agencies (questions need to be adjusted dependant on the level you're at).

I'd caveat that a good recruiter should cover quite a bit of this but it's still key to communicate to employers you're analysing the opportunity.

- What % of your work is retained vs projects?

- Do you prefer to have a certain mix of projects vs retainer work?

- Are there areas/sectors you're looking to grow further in? How could I support on this?

- What internal resources do you have in the business e.g. digital, design and what do you outsource, when needed?

- What's your current approach to new business? Which elements could I support with/lead on?

- Is there a new business target for employees?

- Do you have a marketing budget for us to work on our company brand and increase new business?

- What is your approach to training and development?

- Do you have a budget available for training?

- What are some key qualities you're looking for in this hire?

- What are some challenges the business faces and how could I help address these?

- Do you currently enter awards? If not, would you like me to start leading on this?

- Who is your biggest competitor/s? What do you admire about them?

- Is there equity available (if you're a senior level)?

- Do you have private equity investment/ownership? (I've written about this before and how it's not always a negative, but it's not always the best thing for agency culture)

The above isn't exhaustive but asking even 2-3 questions (bonus if it's something that really makes the employer think) makes you stand out a lot more than the "no further questions" candidate.

Are there any great (or terrible) interview questions you've asked or been asked when interviewing?

#pr #communications #jobinterview #interviewquestions #bradshawsearch