When you get an interview for a position you really want, you may worry asking too many questions might kill your chances. While you should avoid questions about salary and benefits, there are a few that are perfectly justifiable to ask before you head into the office for the interview. Asking the right questions will not only help you feel more prepared, but can also help the day of go smoother.
How Many People You'll Be Meeting With
It's normal to want to know what you're walking into when you schedule your interview. One thing you can do to help you prepare is to ask the hiring manager how many people you will be meeting with so you will know how many copies of your materials to bring (resume, etc.). Besides being a question that will make sure you bring everything you need, it will also allow you to know what your day will look like.
Extra Information About the Location
Have you ever walked into the building your interview is in only to realize there's a security desk and multiple elevators you need to figure out? While most of the time the person scheduling your interview will let you know these thing, people can sometimes forget. A simple remedy to this is to ask them if there's anything special about the location you should know, like who to ask for at the security desk or which parking ramp to use. Having this information ahead of time will allow you to plan for those things so you show up on time.
Dress Code
There's nothing worse than showing up to an interview completely under dressed because you misinterpreted the company culture. Avoid the faux pas by asking the hiring manager what the dress code for the interview is. This way you will avoid making any missteps in the clothing department and allow the focus to be on your stunning resume.
What to Bring
While it is normal to bring copies of your resume and possibly a portfolio depending on your industry, some interviews may call for something extra. When you’re scheduling your interview, it is a good idea to ask if there is anything specific you should bring to the interview, such as writing samples or things of that nature. By asking this you will not only ensure that you show up prepared, but will also show the hiring manager you take it seriously.
It is important to remember that it is perfectly acceptable to ask the hiring manager some simple questions before the interview. Just remember to keep the questions short and sweet and try to avoid calling or emailing them multiple times about different questions. Having these questions on hand will allow you to ask the hiring manager right when they schedule your interview or in a short, follow up email. What questions do you ask before an interview?