Questions to Ask in an Interview

In most structured interviews, you will have the opportunity to ask your future employer questions. Asking questions during an interview helps show the interviewer your knowledge of the firm and interest in the position.

When coming up with questions to ask in your interview, remember that its not intended to be an interrogation. Try to ask questions that the interviewer will be able to answer. If the interview doesn't go so well and you get the feeling that the position you are inquiring about, take the opportunity to inquire about other opportunities within the firm that may be a better fit.

Here are some example questions to ask in an interview:

"What skills do you think are the most important for this position?"

"What position/positions can this job lead to in the future?" or "What is the career path associated with this opportunity?"

"I've noticed that the company is currently the leading provider of widgets in the United States. What are the growth opportunities internationally?"

"I'd really like to work for your company, what are the next steps?"

Notice the example questions do not include questions relating to salary or fringe benefits. For a first interview, these questions should be held until you are fairly certain it's a fit. Many companies have multiple interviews as part of their hiring process. If this is the case, hold off until the time is right.