Questions to Ask About the Company During Interview

Most people have encountered that awkward moment during the interview where the interviewer asks, "Do you have any questions?"  The reason it can be awkward is that if you don't have any questions, you fear it will look like you haven't paid attention or you don't care about the company, and if you do have questions, you worry if they are the right ones to be asking.  Use this time to demonstrate that you've done your research, you know about the industry, and you're serious about taking a position with them.
The questions you ask and how you phrase them is a reflection of you, but they can portray a positive and confident image.  Remember that the interview isn't just so they can get to know you, but for you to get to know them.  Use this time to determine if the company is one you will want to devote your time to.  Here are some great questions to ask during your interview:

• What are the company's plan to expand?
• What is the company's five year plan, and how does this department fit into that plan?
• How does the company compare to other industry leaders?
• What is your management style?
• What kinds of qualifications would the perfect candidate for this position have?
• How and by whom will my performance be evaluated?
• What is the most difficult aspect of this position?
• What is a typical day for someone in this position?
• How many people have held this position in the last 5 years?  Where are these people now?
• What kind of upward movement potential does this position and this company offer?

If the position is a management position, you might want to ask some questions about the employees you will manage, here are a few questions to get you started on the types of appropriate questions you can ask:

• What kind of authority will I hold?
• How is the current morale of employees and why?
• Are there any challenging employees?
• What kind of training issues might I face?
• Have you already identified employees who should be let go?  Is anyone on a discipline plan?

Here are some topics to avoid:

• Anything to do with salary.  The discussion of salary and other benefits will come later when the job offer is extended.
• Anything that can be completed through a Google search, like company size and history.

By asking intelligent and thoughtful answers, you'll portray yourself as a serious candidate, who not only researched the company, but desires to know more.  For more ways we can help your job search, please contact us today!