PTT: Questions YOU Should Ask in an Interview

Professional Tip Tuesday

Questions YOU should be prepared to ask in a job interview.

Any time I hangout with a group of recent grads, the inevitable question always comes up: What are your plans for next year? Some have a job lined up. But many are still searching.

I thought this would be an appropriate Professional Tip Tuesday, as many people are in the interview process right now! But no matter which position you are in, it's good to be thinking about good interviewing techniques that will keep you sharp.

I was reminded of just how important it can be to have good questions prepared for the interviewer after reading a recent LinkedIn blog posted by Dave K. This small, but important part of an interview is something I wish I would have thought about more as I was interviewing for a full time job.

Especially in a competitive job market, having some solid questions prepared can help you stand out from other candidates. When the interviewer asks what questions you have, the right questions will help you make a lasting impression!

Since "What questions do you have?" is almost always an part of an interview, it's important you take advantage of it. Definitely have questions prepared! This is as much a window into your skills and abilities as any of the other questions they ask during your interview.

That doesn't mean just any question...

• Interviewee question DON'T's: Dave K. points out the obvious - do not ask silly questions that you could have (should have!) researched before the interview. You also do not want to ask questions that make the employer question your work ethic. 
• i.e. What does your company do? How many sick days do your employees receive? 

He also calls out the question, "What does this position entail?". I think I asked a variation of that question in several interviews.. whoops! BUT, not to fear. Dave K. includes 9 fantastic questions that can help you nail the interview. 

The questions you ask the interviewer should show your interest in the company, your initiative, and what makes you a fit for their company and their success. Throughout the interview you want to be flattering the company.. this is your last chance to get in a few final flattering words! 

Below are the first three questions Dave K. suggests on his post. To see the full article and the rest of the questions he lists, click here. 

1) "Who would make the ideal candidate for this position?" - Gives you an idea of how your qualifications can help you in the position. 

2) "How will the work I'll be doing contribute to the organization's mission?" - Sets up the expectations and how you can excel in the position.

3) "What were the best things about the person that held this position before?" - Gives you a few things you can do immediately to impress your employer. 

Hope this Professional Tip Tuesday was helpful! What are your go-to questions you ask in an interview? Comment below!