Questions to Ask in a Job Interview

• Alison Doyle
• May 27, 2016
• Newsletter Article

Here is a list of jobs to ask in an interview and general guidelines to asking questions.

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It's your turn! As the interview comes to a close, one of the final questions you may be asked is "What can I answer for you?" Your interviewer will expect for you to have some inquiries - not asking any questions could make you seem unprepared or disinterested.

 

Make a List of Questions to Ask at the Interview

 

Plan ahead and have interview questions of your own ready to ask. You aren't simply trying to get this job - you are also interviewing the employer to assess whether this company and the position are a good fit for you.

 

Asking questions is a good way to dig into the company culture and the specific day-to-day responsibilities of the job, so that your first week in the position won't be accompanied by any major surprises. 

 

Interview Questions to Ask the Interviewer

 

Here's a list of suggested questions to ask the interviewer so you can ensure the company is a good match for your qualifications and interests.

 

• How would you describe the responsibilities of the position?
• How would you describe a typical week/day in this position?
• Is this a new position? If not, what did the previous employee go on to do?
• What is the company's management style?
• Who does this position report to? If I am offered the position, can I meet him/her?
• How many people work in this office/department?
• How much travel is expected?
• Is relocation a possibility?
• What is the typical work week? Is overtime expected?
• What are the prospects for growth and advancement?
• How does one advance in the company?
• Are there any examples of a career path beginning with this position?
• 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?
• What can I clarify for you about my qualifications?
• When can I expect to hear from you?
• Are there any other questions I can answer for you?
• Do you have any reservations about my qualifications?

 

General Guidelines for Asking Questions

 

Avoid "Me" Questions
"Me" questions are those that put yourself ahead of the employer. These include questions about salary, health insurance, vacation time, work hours per week, and other concessions. During an interview, you are trying to demonstrate to the employer how you can benefit the company, not the other way around. Once you are offered a position, you can begin to ask what the company can do for you.

 

Ask One Question at a Time
Avoid multi-part questions; they will only overwhelm the employer. Each question should have one specific point.

 

Avoid "Yes" or "No" Questions
Most questions with a "yes," "no," or other one-word answer could likely be answered by searching the company's website. Instead, stick to questions that will create a dialogue between yourself and the employer.

 

Ask Questions About Multiple Topics
Avoid asking questions about just one subject. For example, if you only ask questions about your manager and his managerial style, the interviewer may assume you have an issue with authority figures. Ask questions about a variety of topics to demonstrate your curiosity and interest in all aspects of the position.

 

Nothing Too Personal
While it is a good idea to try to establish a rapport with your interviewer, do not ask personal questions that are not public information. For example, if you see a college banner on the employer's wall, you can certainly ask if he went to that college. However, avoid overly personal questions about the interviewer's family, race, gender, etc.

 

Questions NOT to Ask at a Job Interview

 

There are some questions that you should avoid asking, since they won't present you in a positive light.

 

• What does this company do? (Do your research ahead of time!)
• If I get the job when can I take time off for vacation? (Wait until you get the offer to mention prior commitments)
• Can I change my schedule if I get the job? (If you need to figure out the logistics of getting to work don't mention it now...)
• Did I get the job? (Don't be impatient. They'll let you know.)