Interview Questions YOU Can Ask
"Do you have any questions for me?" This is a question you can always anticipate. Having several specific questions to ask shows you are prepared. See also Common Interview Questions and Interview Reponses.
- How would you describe the responsibilities of the position?
- How has the position been filled in the past?
- What exactly would you like to have me accomplish in this position?
- When you think about people who tend to do well in this job, what kind of qualities do they have?
- How would you describe a typical week/day in this position?
- How will my leadership responsibilities and performance be measured? And by whom? How often?
- What promotional opportunities are available within your company?
- Can you discuss your take on the company’s corporate culture?
- How would you characterize the management philosophy of this organization? Of your department?
- What do you think is the greatest opportunity facing the organization in the near future? The biggest threat?
- What challenges might I expect to encounter on this job (efficiency, quality control, declining profits, internal policies, evaluation)?
- What opportunities are there for professional development?
- Is relocation something I can expect with this position?
- Whom do I report to? Tell me a little about these people?
- How many people work in this office/department?
- How does one advance in the company?
- What do you like about working here?
- What don't you like about working here and what would you change?
- Would you like a list of references?
- If I am extended a job offer, how soon would you like me to start?
- Do you have any questions about my qualifications?
- May I have a tour of the office/facility/plant?
- What prompted you to become a part of this company or start this business in the beginning?
- If there will be a few days before I start work, could I come in and observe?
- How soon will you decide if you want to hire? Will you contact me or shall I contact you?
Questions you SHOULD NOT ASK during an interview
- What does your company do?
- How much will I be paid? Asking about salary during the first interview tells the interviewer that you are more interested in money than you are in the position or organization.
- When does vacation time come?
- When will I receive my first raise?
- How much vacation time will I get?
- How soon will I be promoted? Ask instead, if there are opportunities for advancement?
