8 Questions to Ask in a Job Interview

Up for your dream job? If you landed a job interview or two, congratulations. You've already made it further that 98% of the applicants.

That's right. Only 2% of the pool of applicants actually gets called in for an interview. While there are many, many things one can do to stand out in a job interview, this article will focus on questions to ask your potential employer. Not only are you answering a slew of important questions in a job interview, but you most likely (if not always) will be given the chance to interview the interviewers.

NEVER don't have a question or two prepared when the employer asks, "Do you have any questions for me?"

NEVER say something like, "Nope. I think you covered it all."

Rather, ask some intelligent questions. This shows the interviewer that you interested in learning more. Plus, it also may give you some telling information to help you decide if you really want to work for the establishment. Here are list of ten questions. Use a couple of them in each job interview so that you not only learn more about the company and position, but also to stand out among other applicants.

1. What are the major responsibilities of the job?

You may be applying for a job as receptionist. However, it may not be all about answering phones and scheduling appointments. Find out what you specific responsibilities will be. You don't want any surprises when you hopefully begin your new job! When it comes time to accept an offer, knowing your responsibilities will allow you to make sure you will be paid accordingly.

2. Would you describe a typical day and the things I would be doing?

This goes along with #1, however having the interviewer take you through the day-in-the-life of X-position will give you a glimpse into the position. How much time will you spend on certain tasks, on the phone, in meetings, on the road, etc.

3. How will I be trained or introduced to the job?

This one is important. If you happen to have experience in the field, this will show that you are open to learning this company's particular way of doing things. A waitress at every restaurant does things differently, for example. Also, some companies do not offer a great training program and instead, employees are throw into the mix. When this happens, sometimes the employee has a difficult time transitioning and may not be successful. So, this question does two things: shows you are open to learning as well as lets you know if you will get support.

4. Is there opportunity for advancement?

Some people are happy staying in one position forever. Other may want to advance. If you are one of the latter, finding out if there are opportunities to advance or move to other positions within a company can be telling. Many companies are known to promote from within, while others seek out management using other methods.

5. Who are the people I would be working with and what do they do?

Asking this question in a job interview allows you to see how much interaction you will have with coworkers or other departments. If you are a social person and you get the answer, "Well, you really work mostly independently," you may want to rethink the job. But, if you are the type of person who likes going solo, that's a good answer. This question also shows that you are willing to work with a team and are interested in working with others.

6. What will my weekly schedule look like?

This goes along with #1 and #2, but is a little different, as it will lie out the whole week. You can ask this question in place of the earlier questions, or as a complement to them. Many companies have weekly meetings, etc. so this question can reveal an meetings, weekly gatherings, when reports may be due, if the office is open later or earlier on certain days, etc.

7. Will I receive a periodic performance review?

This question is very important to as in a job interview as it shows that you are open to feedback. Really, succeeding in any job means getting feedback so you can improve. If the company does not offer any formal review process, you may run into a situation where you'd get reprimanded for something, not knowing you were even performing at a low level.

8. Would you give me a brief tour?

This question shows that your are interested in learning more about the company's climate, and maybe seeing people in action. This is also good for you to see the working conditions. Are people being social and buzzing around, or is everyone quite and to themselves. Sometimes in an interview you only see a very small portion of the company, and if you are in a manager's office, probably in the nicest room! Getting a tour allows you to see the employee work space, common areas like a break room and just in general allows you to get a feel for the place.

Remember, interviewers expect you to ask intelligent questions that show you are looking out for your own welfare and happiness. So, review the eight questions above and perhaps add some more of your own to the list above and add some of your own! But here's a hint:

NEVER ask about salary, vacation days, holidays with pay or sick days-this could appear that you are already looking for days off and only concerned about salary. Salary talks come later.

Good luck out there!