Job interviews aren’t meant to be an interrogation — they are supposed to be a dialogue. An interview is as much about making sure the company is a fit for you as it is that you are a fit for the company. At some point during the interview process, usually toward the end, the person conducting the interview will ask, “Do you have any questions for me?”
Don’t say “no”! Declining to ask questions can leave a very poor impression. It shows you are either (a) not interested in the position, (b) not prepared for the interview / not familiar with the company, or (c) not paying attention.
Over the course of the interview, some questions will naturally come up. But be prepared. Choose 4 or 5 of these questions, write them down, and bring them with you to reference during the interview.
1. How long has this position been open?
2. Is this a new position? If so, why was it created? If not, why did the person who held this position leave the position?
3. What are the company’s priorities, and what specific results would be expected from me in the first 90 days or so?
4. What kind of opportunities for advancement are available?
5. Why did you (the interviewer) join the company? How long ago was that? What is it about the company that keeps you here?
6. Did my resume raise any questions I can clarify?
7. What do you look for in an employee?
8. What type of training is required and how long is it? What type of training is available?
9. What would my first assignment be?
10. What are the skills and attributes most needed to get ahead here?
11. How regularly do performance evaluations occur?
12. Do you have a job description available for this position?
13. Are there any expansion plans for the company?
14. What are the opportunities for on-the-job training and further education?
15. Do you have a tuition assistance or book reimbursement program?