Questions You Should Ask at an Interview
Before going into an interview, do your homework on the company. Read the current and past press releases, corporate literature, and learn as much as you can about the company in general.
This research will assist you in two things. One, your knowledge will show the interviewer you are excited about the company and the position you are applying for; and two, it will show the interviewer your thoroughness in your research. Once the interview turns to questions you have, you are prepared with insightful and intelligent questions regarding the company and the position you are applying for.
Below are some tips on questions to ask (and questions not to ask)when the time comes.
Questions to Ask
- About the Position
- Why is the position open? Is it a newly created position? If not, why did the last person leave?
- What is a typical workday like and what would I do?
What are my primary challenges?
- How are evaluations done? How often? How do I get feedback about my performance?
- What are some short-term and long-term goals you'd like to see achieved within the position?
- What would you consider to be a successful employee within this position?
- What freedom do I have in establishing my own goals and deadlines?
- About the Company
- How much employee turnover is there?
- How does the company contribute to its employees' professional development? Education?
- Are you financially stable?
- What are the company's plans for future growth?
- How has this company fared during the recent recession?
- How do industry trends impact this company?
- What makes your firm different from its competitors?
- What are the company's strengths and weaknesses?
- What is the corporate work culture?
- About Management
- How would you describe your management style?
- Is there any micromanaging?
- What are the goals of the department?
- About Career Advancement
- Does the company promote from within?
- What is a typical career path for this position?
Questions NOT to Ask at the First Interview
- Anything that is already answered in the company's literature
- What is your training program like?
- What will my salary be?
- What are the company's benefits packages?