Questions: Yours
Turn the Table
During most interviews, you will have an opportunity to ask questions. This is an extremely important part of the process. You now have an opportunity to learn more about the employer while displaying your interest and knowledge of the company. The interviewer also gets to see how well you handle yourself in this kind of situation. In fact, employers often expect you to ask smart questions.
Guidelines for asking questions
Prepare at least five good questions. Although you may not be able to ask them all, you'll be prepared if there is time. Focus on questions about the job, the company, and the industry. Your questions should show your interest in the subject and that you've done your homework. For example, you might start, "I saw in the Wall Street Journal that..."
Don't ask questions like, "Is overtime an everyday occurrence?" or initiate questions about pay, vacations, perks, and holidays. It will look like you're more interested in paychecks or time-off than the job itself.
1. How has your career progressed here? Are similar opportunities available today?
2. If I work hard where might I be in five years?
3. How do you evaluate performance during the training period?
4. What is the organization's personality and management style?
5. Can you describe what a work week is like as a (fill in position you're seeking) here?
6. How many people complete your training program each year?
7. When does the training program begin?
8. What is the length and structure of the training program?
9. Do most trainees advance fairly rapidly through the program?
10. What paths have others generally followed after completing the program?
11. What characteristics best describes individuals who are successful in this position?
12. Does the position offer exposure to other facets of your organization?
13. What other positions and/or departments will I interact with most?
14. To whom does this position report?
15. How much decision-making authority is given to new employees?
16. How will my performance be evaluated?
17. How often are performance reviews given? By whom?
18. What are the opportunities for advancement?
19. Are employees encouraged to pursue additional education?
20. What makes your organization different from its competitors?
Typical
Illegal
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