Career Connections

I have a job interview next week and I never know what to say when I’m asked “Do you have any questions?" — submitted by Cara '90

When you go to an interview, it is always important to be well prepared.  You should bring multiple copies of your resume, a typed list of references, a pad and pen and a list of the questions you have for the interviewer.  You should have 5 – 10 questions written down and ask around 3 – 5 of them.

Not sure what to ask?  Start by thinking about what is most important to you in a job.  After that, look over the job description or advertisement for the job and write down questions about the tasks that are not clear to you.  If you are still stuck, search the Internet for possible questions, or ask some of the following:

  • What is a typical day like?
  • What are you hoping to accomplish in the next year, and what will my role be in those goals?
  • Can you please describe the management team to me?
  • Can you tell me a little about the work environment here?
  • I read in the paper this week that you are looking to expand.  Can you give me more details about what the company’s goals are for expansion in the future?
  • Is there anything else you need from me to have a clear picture of my qualifications for this job?

There are also things that you should not ask at an interview:

  • How soon can I take vacation? or sick time?
  • What are your discipline policies like?
  • What would I need to do in order to get your job?
  • Anything that you could easily find the answer to on the company’s website (as you should have researched the company before the interview)
  • Any question that was already answered in the interview, as you will be perceived as not paying attention

Taking the time to prepare questions before the interview will not only help you feel more confident, it shows the interviewer that you cared enough about the interview to prepare ahead of time.  Interviewers expect you to ask enough questions to make a well-informed decision about whether or not you want the job.  Remember, interviewing is a two-way street; the company is selecting the best candidate and you are selecting the best job for you!