iMentor Skills for Career Advancement (SCA) Workshop Series

SESSION #6: Sample Questions to ASK at Your Interview

Interviewing is an active conversation between two (or more) people. Not only will you be answering questions, but also you will have an opportunity to ask some questions of your own. The information you obtain will help you decide if a particular job meets your goals, matches your values, will allow you to use your skills and abilities, and has the working environment you like. It is also a good indication to the interviewer that you are serious about the position for which you are applying.

One good way of preparing questions is to research the company and position. You can use the information you find to show that you are knowledgeable. You can obtain information about companies and positions on the Internet and at the library.

Below is a list of some sample questions to ask your interviewer:

• What are the daily duties of the job?

• Why is this position available?

• Would you describe the working conditions?

• To whom would I directly report?

• How often would I be evaluated?

• Is there a probationary period?

• What is the company’s policy about promotion and opportunities for advancement?

• Does the company offer ongoing training and development for employees?

• What are the daily or weekly working hours?

• Is there travel (local, state, nationwide) involved?

• What are some of the most challenging aspects of this job?

• What are the opportunities for personal growth?

• How would you describe your company’s personality and management style?

• What are your expectations of new employees?

• Can you describe a typical day at this job?

• What do you find most satisfying about working for this company?