A Career Coach Who Understands

Let’s face it, job interviews are stressful. Sometimes the stress of the situation makes it difficult to think on the fly so it is best to be prepared and well rehearsed before you go into the interview. Many people focus solely on the questions they may be asked but very few consider the questions they should put forth during the process.

Asking your own questions during the job interview will be of benefit to you in several ways.

1. It shows your prospective boss that this job is important enough to you to have done your research about the position you are applying for.
2. Questions will help you clarify whether this company and job is really a good fit for your skills, qualifications and personality.
3. The more questions you ask, the more aware the person doing the hiring will see that you fully understand what is expected of you.

The trick is knowing what to ask. There are a few questions to avoid as well. Before going into the job interview, get out a piece of paper and write down any pertinent information you would like clarified. Go over the research you have done about the company and write a specific question about the operation.

Here are some samples of job interview questions to ask:

• What are the responsibilities of the position?
• What is a typical work week like in this company? Is overtime expected or required to complete the job tasks?
• Is this a newly created position? If not, where did the previous person holding the job move on to?
• What are my opportunities for growth and advancement within the company?
• What is the management style of this firm?
• Can you tell me what you like best about working for this company?
• Is there anything you do not like about working here?
• Will there be travel involved with this position?
• Is relocation a possibility in the future?
• How many people work in this office?
• If I am the successful applicant, who will my supervisor be? Will it be possible to meet with him/her?
• Would you like a list of my references?
• When will you be making a decision about this position and when can I expect to hear from you?

Samples of job interview questions you do NOT want to ask during an interview:

• If I get hired, how soon can I take vacation?
• If I get the job, can I change my work schedule? (you do not want to give the impression that work is interfering with your daily life or that you will have difficulty showing up for work as scheduled)
• Do I have the job? How soon can I start? (Chances are there are many others to be interviewed and the interviewer will need time to go over all applicants and make a decision. Be patient)

Try to fit your job interview questions into the whole process when they are most applicable. Many  interviewers will end the session by asking, “Do you have any questions?” This is your opportunity to ask any unanswered questions you may have.

Technorati Tags: job interview questions, job search questions, preparing for a job interview, what to ask during a job interview