Job Interview Questions YOU Should Ask…

The phone call Jason waited for finally came! He’d been invited for an interview for the job he’d wanted—sales manager for an educational publishing company. Suddenly his nerves were on edge. He knew how to dress for the occasion but he was concerned about the questions he had on his list—the ones to ask and the ones to avoid.

His buddy Wes had reviewed the questions he might hear from the hiring manager so he felt pretty confident about those. But he also realized this would be a two-way interview. Jason wanted to be sure that he got his questions answered too. After all, he might decide against this company if it didn’t seem right for him once he actually talked with the hiring manager and learned more about the company. He was not desperate for the job—just eager!

Your Turn to Interview the Hiring Manager

After you answer the employer’s questions during your job interview, there will be time for you to voice your inquiries. The important thing is to know what questions to ask and which ones to set aside—for now. Keep in mind that interviewers want to speak with job seekers who are sharp, confident, and professional. This is no time to be passive and overly polite, though courtesy is always appropriate. Prepare ahead of time so you can ask specific questions and be attentive to the answers you receive.

Consider These Questions to Ask

• What do you especially like about working here?
• Is this a good place for someone like me to build a career?
• How do you envision the future of this company?
• What is the most challenging aspect of working for this organization?
• In your opinion, what would be the biggest adjustment for someone new?

Consider These Questions to Avoid

• What is the salary range for this position?
• How much paid vacation will I receive?
• Are there insurance benefits for my family as well as myself?
• What about pay raises? How often do they occur?

Walk into the interview armed with as much information as possible and then ask only those questions that will help you decide whether to accept or decline the job offer if it is presented.

Remember, you’re being ‘screened.’ There will come a time and place to talk about pay, vacations, and health coverage, but not yet. You won’t want to ruin a good thing by sounding aggressive.

Use What You Learn

Also keep in mind that an interview is not a social visit or a time to talk about sports and hobbies—unless the employer takes that lead during the ‘get acquainted’ period. If that occurs, it’s fine to answer honestly and succinctly so you can quickly return to the focus—your candidacy for the job.

Common sense is your best friend at this time. Be yourself. Do your homework. Show up neatly dressed. Arrive on time. And bring enthusiasm, a smile, and a firm handshake—and questions that will help you determine whether or not this is the company for you.

© Written By Jimmy Sweeney
President of CareerJimmy and Creator of the new,
Job Interview “Secret Document”

Jimmy Sweeney is president of CareerJimmy and creator of the brand new, “Job Interview Secret Document.” Jimmy is the author of “Tough Times Job Tips” and writes a monthly article titled, “Job Search Secrets.”

On your very next job interview, the moment you walk in the door, simply hand your customized “Secret Career Document” to the person conducting the interview and let the magic begin…