Questions to ask your interviewer

Whether you’re being interviewed for a place at a practice, college or anywhere else, you can just about guarantee that once you have been interrogated yourself, you’ll be asked whether you have any questions.

You can also guarantee that politely saying you have nothing to ask won't do you any favours – and it could mean the difference between getting the job or not.

Asking plenty of relevant questions shows you have a real interest in the role, and helps you to learn more about whether the job is the right one for you.

Here are some questions to think about:

What kind of training is on offer?

This classic question shows you’re keen to develop your veterinary skills and want to add as much value as possible to the organisation. If you then go on to ask about chances for promotion, that also shows ambition and a long-term commitment.

How is performance measured and reviewed?

Asking this demonstrates that you understand how important it is to give the practice or other organisation proper, measurable results. It means your interviewers should then view you as a candidate who appreciates reliability and commitment.

What are the most challenging and most enjoyable elements of this role?

What this does is tell your interviewers you like knowing what kind of challenges you are likely to be up against, so that you can prepare accordingly.

What is the work culture here like?

This shows you are keen to work at your best, and appreciate the need for a positive environment to be able to do this. Another way of phrasing this question is to ask about management style.

What are the most vital issues the practice is likely to face?

This demonstrates a keen interest in both the role and the employer. You can also find out if a new medicine, method or treatment has been introduced, and ask how it will benefit your prospective employer.

Finally, if you have a particular interest in a type of patient care or treatment, for example, use your questions as the chance to see whether you can tell them a little more about your skills and interest.