QUESTIONS TO ASK INTERVIEWERS

The following are interview questions that you may wish to ask company representatives that you interview with. You may not have much time in your first interview to ask questions. The first ‘Temperature Check” question is ‘gutsy’ yet gives you an opportunity to immediately discuss any concerns the interviewer may have regarding your fit for their company and the position. It is your decision if you wish to ask it. Whether you do or not, you should be able to at least ask all the “Level 1” questions.  If you have more time you may wish to ask some or all of the “Level 2’ questions. If you get to a second interview, be prepared to ask Level 1 and 2 questions (yet close with the last 3 Level 1 questions) to each of the people you meet. The questions you decide to ask are at your discretion. These following questions by no means represent the only questions you should ask. They are just a sample of some questions you may wish to ask. DON’T FORGET TO GO TO THE COMPANY WEBSITE and do some homework to develop more questions. GOOD LUCK!

TEMPERATURE CHECK QUESTION

First, before I begin my questions, based on our discussion so far, do you have any concerns regarding my skill set and experience to be a strong candidate for this position?

(If there are, this is the perfect time to discuss it before you ask your questions. to make sure any perceived gaps in your experience and skill set are addressed)

LEVEL 1 QUESTIONS (focused on the interviewer)

I am seeking a company where I can add value and grow professionally. Can you please walk me through where you started your career and how you got to be where you are today?

What was the allure of COMPANY NAME for you? 

What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far at COMPANY NAME?

What has been the most challenging part of your career so far here?

What 1 piece of wisdom would you impart on someone looking to join this industry?

What 1 piece of wisdom would you impart on someone looking to join this company?

What is the process moving forward from today?


LEVEL 2 QUESTIONS (focused on the position and company)

What do you feel are the company’s strengths?

What markets/areas do you see the most growth opportunities?

What are the biggest challenges to growth you are currently facing?

Where does the company want to see itself in 5 years? 10 years?

Is this a new position?

Are there any major priorities in need of implementation at present for this position?

How would you define success for this position 1 year from now? 3 years?

How is the team the successful candidate will be on structured?

Who will this position report to?

If I were a finalist for the position, would there be an opportunity to meet my new boss? (Ask this only if the person interviewing you won’t be your boss)

What type of orientation program is ready for the successful candidate?

How is the compensation for this position structured?

Estimated start date?

THANK-YOU FOR ANSWERING MY QUESTIONS!


Student Resources

  1. Resume and Interview Tips To Help You Get A Great Job
  2. Resumé Samples
  3. Interviewer Questions
  4. Like/Dislike Analysis Form ( adobe acrobat .PDF )
  5. SWOT Analysis Form ( adobe acrobat .PDF )
  6. Election Tips - Summary ( adobe acrobat .PDF )

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