Three Varieties of Questions Candidates Can Ask

When preparing for interviews or discussions, candidates often need to ask questions to gain more insight and make informed decisions. The types of questions a candidate can ask generally fall into three categories: informational, evaluative, and strategic. Here’s an in-depth look at each type:

1. Informational Questions: These are designed to gather basic facts and details about the position, company, or industry. They help candidates understand the context and specifics of the role they are applying for. Examples include:

   • "Can you describe a typical day for someone in this role?"
   • "What are the key challenges currently facing the team?"
   • "How does the company measure success for this position?"

2. Evaluative Questions: These aim to assess whether the role, team, or organization aligns with the candidate’s values, goals, and career aspirations. They help candidates evaluate if the position is a good fit for them. Examples include:

   • "How does the company support professional development and career growth?"
   • "Can you provide examples of how the team collaborates and supports each other?"
   • "What are the company's values and how are they reflected in daily operations?"

3. Strategic Questions: These are designed to understand the future direction of the company or department and how the candidate’s role will contribute to broader goals. They help candidates gauge long-term opportunities and challenges. Examples include:

   • "What are the company’s strategic goals for the next five years?"
   • "How does this role contribute to the company’s overall mission and objectives?"
   • "Are there any upcoming projects or changes that might impact this role?"

By asking these types of questions, candidates can gain a comprehensive understanding of the role and the organization, ensuring they make a well-informed decision about their potential fit.