Questions to Ask at a Job Interview

While the prospect of landing that perfect-for-you job is exciting, the actual interview process might make you feel sick to your stomach. If you stammer, "Um, nope, guess not," when a hiring manager asks whether you have any questions, you may come across as unprepared, and worse, unqualified. Asking the interviewer questions shows that you are interested in the position and in the company. It also shows that you are sharp and geared up for the interview. Learn the types of questions you should ask an interviewer and get a step closer to your dream job.

Ask, "Why are you looking to fill this position?"

Should you be offered the job, it might help you decide whether to accept based on the answer to this question. Some encouraging answers include the promotion of the person who formerly held the job as well as business growth creating a new position. If the interviewer's answer is along the lines of, "The last girl couldn't handle the pressure," make sure the job description fits the salary. If the interviewer answers, "I couldn't stand that slacker," it may show a lack of professionalism.

Ask, "What can you tell me about the staff?"

Working with a group of like-minded people can make a bad job bearable. On the same note, a tense workplace environment can ruin even the perfect position. If the interviewer answers that the staff is a friendly bunch with a reputation for pitching in whenever and wherever there is a need, you may have found your sweet spot. If the interviewer's answers are more personal and less-than-glowing, however, you might rethink the position. At the very least, ask more questions.

Ask, "How often and in what manner are employees evaluated?"

If you are a goal setter who will put forth more than just what is required, look for a job that will take notice and reward your efforts. Hopefully, the interviewer's answer will speak to the company's method of helping employees set measurable goals, as well as rewards such as raises, promotions and bonuses. If, instead, the answer you receive is, "Oh, we just expect everyone to do their jobs," you may want to keep looking.

Ask, "How long have you worked here, and what do you like about it?"

If an interviewer was recently hired following the last round of layoffs and likes the company, "So far," consider keeping your options open. However, if the interviewer started at a much lower rung on the company ladder and worked up to a position she loves because of the (fill in the blank) flexibility/challenges/rewards/variety, you might have found an amazing new job.

Ask what you want to know!

Consider some of your last positions, including the one you loved the most and the one you couldn't wait to leave. What things do you wish you had known before taking those jobs? Think of some questions to ask the interviewer before the interview occurs and go find the job about which you have been fantasizing.