Fresh grads, job hunters, the recently retrenched and students looking for part-time work, take heed.

Interviews can be tricky, so it's time to step up your game.

No more buzz words. No more sugarcoating and definitely no more "My only weakness is that I love challenges and working over time."

Interviews shouldn't be a one-way street. It's a conversation.

I've not been to a job interview in a long time, but these are timeless questions to ask your potential employer if you want to confidently waltz into the room and walk out with a new job.

Why take it from me?

Because if someone like me who hasn't been to an interview in a long time knows what to ask to up my game, you can take heed.

I've compiled the best interview questions that you, as a potential employee, can use to show that you have something more between your ears.

1) "Where do YOU see the company going in the next 10 years?"

Because their future is important as it could be your future too. You've the right to know where the company is going.

2) "What is the question you all really want to ask me but haven't?"

Maybe sometimes the interviewers are unwilling to address a concern about you. Asking this would encourage them to get it out in the open and not leave them in the dark, which will work in your favor as they'd get more information that they need.

3) "What would make someone successful in this role?"

A straightforward question that sets clear expectations. This would also show your motivation to work hard towards something rather than you trying to make a good impression out of yourself that isn't really linked to the job itself.

4) "I was looking over your company's social media presence and I can see that your brand has been active for the past few months. Has your strategy changed?"

You did your research. Nuff said.

Anyone can easily do their research on any company today with social media. No excuses, so do your homework.

I'd personally ask about a specific marketing event that took place too and what came out of it.

5) "What have you enjoyed most about working here?"

This allows you to connect with the interviewer on a more personal level. And you'd also be able to find out how satisfied and happy the employees are.

If the interviewer can't even answer that question or straight up tells you that the job sucks, that's a big red flag you need to take note of.

6) "Do you have any hesitations about my qualifications?"

Feeling insecure about your level of education?

Get it out in the open then. Then reassure them with your experience and abilities.

This question also takes guts, so that's a plus. It easily sets you apart from the rest.

7) "What is the history of this job position? Is it newly created?"

It's good for you to know about the position's past.

If it's new, you've the opportunity to set standards.

If the turnover rate is insane, you may want to rethink taking up the job.

8) "Is there room for advancement? Is there career training?"

This signals to them that you're ambitious and serious about the job.

If the answer is no, then it's a good heads up for you.

9) "How would you describe the culture here? Do colleagues eat together? Are there regular company events?"

This'd give a clear idea on how it's like everyday when you work for the company. Be as specific as you want.

Remember, this is potentially going to be your job, your eight-to-five. Your happiness and satisfaction are pretty much at stake here.

10) "What are the next steps in the interview process?"

This should always be your last question.

It shows the interviewer that you're interested in this job. They may also then tell you how many people are currently running for the position.

Good luck boys and girls.

Alden Tan is a writer who graduated from NUS and is now doing the whole “quit my job to follow a dream” thing as he blogs about honest and real stories. Check out his free book, 12 Things Happy People Don’t Give a F**k About.

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