An important part of preparing for an interview is thinking through (and writing down) questions for your interviewers. While there is such a thing as asking too many questions, coming in with a short list of smart questions will go a long way to both understand the role and impress the hiring manager. It’s always best to focus on the role, the team and company – not the vacation package.
Great questions:
- What are the biggest professional challenges that the person in this role is likely to encounter?
- What are your long term goals for this role and department?
- How is the team structured?
- How closely will I work with a supervisor or mentor?
- What types of employee tend to succeed here? OR – What qualities are most important for success in this role?
- Are there opportunities to take on new projects and challenges that may fall out of the actual job responsibilities?
- Is there any experience you’re looking for that I haven’t yet spoken to?
- What are the next steps/best way to follow up after our meeting?
Avoid asking:
- How long will it take for a promotion? (You seem like you’re only interested in climbing the ladder, not focused on being successful in the current opportunity)
- How long until I can take vacation? (Wait until offer stage or a conversation with HR to ask about benefits, PTO, etc.)
- How soon can I apply for another job here? (Don’t jump ship so quickly! Stay focused on the one position.)
- How much PTO do I get? (You shouldn’t be planning your vacation before you even get the job.)
- Flexible Schedule or special privileges (Save these for when you actually have an offer.)
- Anything generic – So…. What do you like about working in X industry? (Really, how is this helping you evaluate the job?)