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?)