The Best Questions Testers Should Ask an Interviewer

Have you ever clammed up in an interview with an uncomfortable pause when you heard the following question from an interviewer: “Any questions for me?” and finally answered with a “No”. I know I have.

I thought about this a lot and asked myself, ‘Did I not have questions?’ I sure did. But then, why did I not voice them?

It is simply because I was not sure if it was OK to ask the questions that were lingering in my thoughts.

Questions To Ask An Interviewer

I sat researching and analyzing this aspect and put together these few questions that we can ask an interviewer. Should we wish to do so?

I have categorized them into areas to make it an easier read. So here is the list:

Category 1: Project-Related Or Technical Particulars

Q #2) Is this a new position or am I filling in for a previously existing one that is currently empty?

All of these questions and the reasons we are asking these questions are obvious. Hence, there is no need for any further elaboration.

Also read => Manual and Automation Testing interview questions

Category 2: Culture Related Questions

Q #2) What kind of work environment can we expect?

Some places are more formal than others. Others are less serious than some. In some companies, playing music all day is allowed, while in others, listening to music with earphones is impolite. So, know the place you are going to work at and see if it is a fit for you.

I once worked for a banking company that would not let in any devices with memory, Bluetooth, or data services in them. I went through a whole year feeling like a juvenile delinquent who was refused a connection with the world. Good for me, it was a consulting engagement.

Had I been a permanent employee, I would have quit and moved on. Sometimes, the chemistry has to work, even at an organization’s culture level. It helps to find out about it in advance.

Category 3: The Steps Following The Interview

Q #1) What are the next steps in this interview process?

This question will let you know if there is going to be another round of an interview or if it’s the decision time. This will avoid surprises.

Q #3) Is there something you need from me, (like my references or any other documentation) before we move to the next step?

This will give you an idea of whether or not the interview was a success.

In addition to these, you could ask about:

Q #1) How would career growth be like in this company?

Q #2) How long has the company been in this business? (Also, if you could research this kind of information beforehand, it will be more beneficial. But if you haven’t, it is ok to ask the interviewer.)

These are not all but a few of them to give you a general idea.

Conclusion

Remember to ask these questions at a relevant time and direct them to the appropriate interviewer. For Example, questions belonging to category 1 are most apt for a Project Manager or a technical interviewer. If you had questions about benefits or leave policy or any other organizational policies, it might be best to approach the HR.

I hope this article has given some pointers as to what you might want to find out about your future employer. My personal experience tells me that career advancement is better when there is a long-term commitment between a company and an employee.

Job hopping might be great to gather some skills from all around the place and to diversify our experiences, but the chances of moving up the career ladder and the chances of taking on more responsible positions happen when you are in for the long haul.

So, as much as it is important to make it through an interview, it is also important to make an educated choice as to accept the job or not. Choose wisely and have fun at your dream job! 🙂

About the author: This post is from STH team member Swati S.

We always value your input and want to hear about your experiences. What criteria do you use to determine whether or not to choose a company? Which questions did you pose to the interviewer? Please leave your comments and questions below.