Toward the end of most job interviews, the interviewer will give you the opportunity to ask questions. You must ask at least one question; if you do not it signals the interviewer that you don’t really have any interest in the job or the company. Do not ask questions where the answer is obvious or readily available ‐ or when the topic has already been thoroughly discussed in the interview. AND never ask about salary and benefit issues until those subjects are raised by the employer.

Questions to ask:

  • How would you describe your company culture?
  • What is your vision for your department over the next two to three years?
  • What major challenges are you currently facing as a manager?
  • What makes your company better than its competitors?
  • Who do you consider your customers to be?
  • What can you tell me about the other people in the organization I would be working with? Can I meet with any of them before accepting an offer of employment?
  • What are the most important skills and attributes you are looking for in filling this position?
  • What is your management style?
  • What is your preferred method of communicating with your team?
  • What have you liked most about working here?
  • How are your appraisals done?
  • Can you describe a typical day for someone in this position?
  • How will my leadership responsibilities and performance be measured? By whom?
  • (If this is a new position) What made you decide to open up this position?
  • What happened to the person who previously held the job?
  • What do you consider your companies greatest strengths and areas for growth?
  • How soon are you looking to fill this position?
  • I’d really like to work here, and I believe I can be a great addition to your team. What’s the next step in the selection process?
  • Before I leave, is there anything else you need to know concerning my ability to do this job?