The interview process is an opportunity for you to find out more information about the organization. Always come prepared with questions to ask the interviewer- specific questions with relevance to the position applied for. Every question you ask should demonstrate your interest and confirm your knowledge of the organization.

• Is there anything else I can tell you about my background?
• Can you show me where this position fits in the organization?
• What characteristics does a successful candidate bring to this position?
• What characteristics must they develop to continue that success?
• Can you tell me more about the company's training program?
• Can you tell me the opportunities/prospects for advancement beyond this level?
• What is the average time it takes to get to the ____________ level in the career path?
• Could you tell me what the largest issue facing this department is?
• Largest issue facing the organization as a whole?
• What changes do you see forthcoming for the company during the next three to five years?
• Does the company have plans to grow in the next three to five years?
• How much travel is normally expected from those in this position?

After the job is offered, additional questions to be answered...

• I greatly appreciate your offer. How soon do you need a decision? May I let you know by __________________?
• Is a brochure on the company's benefits program available?
• Clarification on details (where do I park? immediate supervisor? orientation period? etc.)
• IF you are turned down for a position...
• Are there others in the organization/elsewhere who would be interested in my experience?
• How could I improve myself for opportunities in this field?
• I remain very interested in what your company is doing. Could you keep my resume on hand for consideration for future openings?
• Always end interview situations on a positive note!
• Be sure to send thank you/post interview letters to the interviewer(s), regardless of the outcome!

Questions to Avoid

• Questions that are answered in the company's annual report or employment brochure.
• Salary or benefit information in the initial interview. The recruiter may bring the topic up, you should not initiate the topic.
• Questions of a personal nature that would put the interviewer on the defensive (educational background, marital status, past work experience, etc.)
• Questions that have already been answered during the interview. Do not repeat them unless you need clarification.