SINGAPORE – A young man recently opened up on social media about a frustrating experience he had during a job interview, where he realized that his lack of preparation and inability to ask questions cost him a valuable opportunity. In a post on Reddit’s “Ask Singapore” forum, he recounted how an interview that was supposed to last for 30 minutes ended abruptly after just 12 minutes. This alarming outcome left him feeling disheartened and confused.

“My lack of engagement was clearly a red flag,” he lamented. “Now, I’m keen on learning how to better prepare for my next interview and what questions I should be asking to show my interest.”

In his post, many community members chimed in with their insights, sharing relatable experiences and constructive advice for the interview process. One respondent emphasized the importance of being inquisitive, stating, “As an interviewer, when candidates don’t ask questions, it raises concerns about their interest level in the role. It’s a crucial aspect of gauging fit for both parties.”

Another user recommended that candidates think of interviews as not just a process where they are evaluated but as a two-way conversation where they also assess if the company aligns with their own goals and values. This perspective can significantly alter the dynamics of an interview, transforming it into a collaborative dialogue rather than an intimidating performance.

For those preparing for upcoming interviews, here are 15 essential questions to consider asking, ensuring you make a notable impression:

1. Why is this position vacant?

– Gain insights into the role’s context.

2. What performance benchmarks do you look for?

– Understand expectations from the outset.

3. What metrics of success might you use to evaluate my performance?

– Clarify your goals and objectives from day one.

4. Can you tell me about the company’s work culture?

– Assess if the environment fits your personality and work style.

5. Does the company offer any team-building activities?

– This can provide insights into the camaraderie among employees.

6. What are the biggest opportunities in the company right now?

– Understand where the company is headed strategically.

7. What challenges is the company currently facing?

– Gauge transparency and responsibility within the organization.

8. What does the career path look like for someone in this role?

– Learn about potential growth and progression.

9. Do you provide professional development opportunities?

– See if the company invests in its employees’ growth.

10. What is the company’s management style?

– Determine if their leadership approach aligns with your work preferences.

11. What is the best part of working for the company?

– Get a sense of what employees value most about their roles.

12. What sets this company apart from others?

– Discover the unique selling points that could influence your decision.

13. What traits do I need to succeed in this position?

– Prepare yourself for what’s expected.

14. With what other departments might I collaborate?

– Understand cross-functional dynamics and team interactions.

15. What are the next steps in the interview process?

– Show your enthusiasm by inquiring about what's next.

In wrapping up the lesson learned from this unfortunate experience, it’s clear that the key to a successful interview lies in proactive engagement and preparation. So, next time you step into an interview room, remember – it’s not just about impressing your potential employer; it's about finding the right fit for you, too!

Read also: A local man speaks out on feeling overshadowed in his own country, expressing concerns that “there seem to be more foreigners than locals these days.”