An interview isn’t just a chance for the employer to get to know you—it’s also a chance for you to get to know the company at which you’re applying. Just as the hiring manager is trying to figure out whether you’d be a good fit for the company, you in turn should make sure that the job, company culture and work environment is a good fit for you!
Coming to the interview with some questions prepared in advance demonstrates to the employer that you’re interested in more than a paycheck—you’re interested in becoming a contributing, integrated member of the team and organization.
Basic Questions to Ask the Interviewer
Use the following list of questions as a starting point when thinking about what to ask the hiring manager:
- Why is this job open?
- What are the organization’s most important goals this year?
- Can you describe a typical day for the person in this job?
- What types of training are provided?
- Please describe the advancement opportunities in the company.
- What is your management style (or that of my prospective supervisor)?
- What changes do you see in the company’s future
- When do you expect to make hiring decision?
- When can I start?
Preparing Your Own Questions for the Interview
Now complete the following exercise, keeping in mind the specific company or agency at which you want to interview.
- What job are you applying for?
- What kind of company or agency is it?
- What questions will you ask in the interview:
- About the work itself?
- About the work environment?
- To show interest in the organization beyond the specific job?
- To show you are ambitious and want a future career path?
- About what is important in the organization?
- About how your work will be evaluated?
Develop at least five questions you could ask in the interview and add them to the list you started above.
