Every step during the interview has the potential to impact your candidacy−from nailing first impressions and demonstrating confidence through body language to the quality of your responses. Likewise you can learn to impress and stand out among other candidates by asking the right questions at the end of the interview. This is another opportunity to show your level of interest in the company and position, increase your knowledge, and learn if this job and company is the right fit for you. Read more for questions that can help to lead you in the right direction.
Questions about the Job
Unless you're a returning intern, typically you won't have first-hand experience in the position at the company. You can find out more about what you're getting yourself into. Delve deep with questions and get to learn about expectations, daily responsibilities and more to know if you're pursuing the position that is right for you.
Responsibilities:
- What are the main responsibilities of this position?
- What does a typical day at work look like?
- What are some examples of projects that I may be assigned?
- What are some challenges that I may face in this position?
Training & Onboarding:
- Are new hires given a training period?
- What does the training consist of (videos, reading guides, one-on-one instructions)?
- Will new hires be assigned to a mentor or buddy?
Expectations:
- In six months and one year, what are the goals I am expected to have reached?
- How will expectations for this position change after a year?
- How is success in this position determined?
Department/Team:
- Who will I be working closely with?
- How much time will I be working individually versus with a team?
- Do you expect to hire more people in this department?
Evaluation:
- What is the performance review process like?
- How is the success of a performance measured?
Questions about the Company
While it is important to know the people you will be working with, you will also be working for a company whose values, goals and culture may impact your work satisfaction and happiness. Ask questions to learn about aspects of the company that may not be so obvious, but plays a factor in whether the company is the right one for you.
- What is the company's definition of success? How is that measured?
- How does the company celebrate success? What happens when someone fails?
- Does the company promote career growth and advancement? How?
- Where is the company headed in the next few years?
Questions about the Interviewer(s)
Don't let the interview intimidate you and miss out on a perfect opportunity to connect with a professional−your interviewer. Asking questions about your interviewer is a great way to get to know someone at the company and at the same time learn more about the job and workplace itself.
- What do you enjoy and love about your job?
- How long have you been with the company?
- How would you describe the work environment here?
- What is your favorite company tradition here?
- How has the company changed since you joined?
Questions about After the Interview
Don't leave before you know the next step in the hiring process. Ask questions to be clear that both your interviewer and you have all the information needed. The right questions can also help you out while you're waiting to hear back from the company.
- When is the company looking to fill the position?
- When can I expect to be notified?
Always ask questions at the end of the interview. What do you want to know about the people, the job and the company you may work for?