Interview the Interviewer Questions to ask
Landing an interview that you've waited for can be a life changing event. It's your opportunity to sell yourself and you want to do your best to be prepared. One of the things to remember is that the company is also selling itself as well. How they do that is stated at the end of most interviews with the question, "Do you have any questions for us?"
Whatever you do, don't give in to the feeling of elation and say, "No, I have no questions!" In fact, the best thing to do is to have a few questions already scripted out in your mind. Here are a few suggestions and the reasoning behind them.
Outside of the qualifications listed in the listing, what are you hoping I can bring to the table?
This really is a question beating around the bush. You want to know how you can be better, if not equal, to your predecessor. After all, most often the person interviewing you will ask you something to the extent of, "what did you like best about your last job?" so why not turn the tables on them and ask them what they would like to see you do best? To rephrase the question, ask them what they feel is the most important trait of someone who would fill the position they have now. This may impress them by making them feel that you want to make sure you are the best match you can be.
Where do you see the company in five years from now?
This seems like an odd question doesn't it? It should, if nothing else, sound familiar. One of the questions often asked is, "where do you see yourself five years from now?" or perhaps phrased as, "we are looking for someone career-minded, are you someone who sees themselves long term with us?" You can impress your future employers even more and make yourself stand out by doing just a little research, done easily through the internet, and say something positive about the company. It will show you are really dedicated to the company as a whole.
How do you feel the company stands out from...(insert any given competitor) in employee relations?
This gives the impression that you might be fishing in other similar fields. The goal here is to give the impression that you have done your research and want what is best for you as well as for the company. People want people who know what is going on around them. What better way than to turn the tables here? The question can be tailored of course to fit whatever important need you might have; insurance for example, co-pays are a hot topic, 401K's.Tip, don't focus on vacation time or sick time! You don't want to give the impression you are just waiting for your next holiday! The goal here is to look professional.
Can I see the workspace?
Now, they may say yes or no, but this will, if nothing else, show that you care about your surroundings. It will give you an opportunity to see where you will be in relation to the rest of the staff, what you have to work with and so on. You might find out that though the interview is great, the pay is okay and you will be employed but that you will also be miserable. This question is suggested to be asked as a final question; that way you can shake hands and part ways afterwards should the answer yes.
Keep in mind that his is an interview, not a one way street. You should be looking at the interviewer and asking yourself if this company, these people, are ones you could easily spend most of your day with. Remember, sometimes workers spend more time at work than at home so it is important that you do what is right for you and those around you.
