Questions You Should Ask During the Job Interview
Posted in Interview Questions
Let's turn the tables just this once.
Towards the end of every interview, your interviewer will ask "Do you have any questions?". This is the perfect opportunity for you to determine whether the company and the position are suitable for you. So don't waste this chance by answering "None. Thank you very much."
Here are some interview questions you may ask your interviewer:
How would you describe the responsibilities of the position?
- Some interviewers would tell you about the general responsibilities of the position you are applying for. To find out more, ask this question.
How would you describe a typical week/day in this position?
- So you would have some idea of the level of activity on a daily or weekly basis. Is a typical work week/day too hectic or lax for you?
Is this a new position? If not, what did the previous employee go on to do?
- Maybe the position was created because of certain factors such as a booming market, and may be abolished once the market is down.
What is the company's management style?
- For you to know if you can work under their style of management.
Who does this position report to? If I am offered the position, can I meet him/her?
- Shows your attitude towards authority figures.
How many people work in this office/department?
- The number of people working in an office/department has many implications. Policies, benefits, etc. depend on how many people are working at a particular company. The number of people at a certain company/department is also reflection of a company's stability.
How much travel is expected?
- Are you comfortable about doing a lot of traveling and field work or are you more comfortable just staying put at the office? Would your personal life permit it?
Is relocation a possibility?
- Are you willing to relocate? Would your family be comfortable with it?
What is the typical work week? Is overtime expected?
- Are your comfortable about working extra hours? How would working overtime fit in your personal life?
What are the prospects for growth and advancement?
- No one likes a dead end job. Of course, you want a company that will help you achieve your career goals and objectives.
How does one advance in the company?
- So you would know how to go about achieving your career goals and objectives.
Are there any examples?
- Ask for examples to have a clear picture of how careers are advanced in that company.
What do you like about working here?
- Sometimes it is to be expected that your interviewer would only have the nicest things to say about the company. But more or less, asking this question will give you an idea about the work environment at a certain company, and if you can work under those conditions.
What don't you like about working here and what would you change?
- Again, this gives you an idea if you can work under such a company's management style. Maybe you can be the change agent in the company?
Would you like a list of references?
- Shows you've got nothing to hide.
If I am extended a job offer, how soon would you like me to start?
- Interviewers usually ask you how soon you can start, but if they neglect to do so, ask them. It also helps you appear enthusiastic about the job prospect.
What can I tell you about my qualifications?
- Shows your confidence in what you've accomplished so far, and that you may be the one for the job.
When can I expect to hear from you?
- Again this shows your enthusiasm to get the position. On the practical side, asking this question would let you know until when you should keep your hopes up, and when to go looking for another job.
Are there any other questions I can answer for you?
- Prompt your employer for questions he/she might have forgotten to ask. The more details you bring to the surface, the more you'll know if the job is for you.
Source: about.com
