Sample Questions To Ask
____________________________________________________

A job interview is not only an opportunity for the employer to question applicants, but an opportunity for the applicants to learn more about the employer. The following questions are frequently asked by job applicants.

1. "Can you please tell me how your career has developed at XYZ Corp. and would someone entering the firm today have similar opportunities?"

2. "If I work hard and prove my value to the firm, where might I be in five years?"

3. "I read in your literature that your training program is comprised of three six-month rotations. Does the employee have any input into where s/he will go at the end of each rotation? How do you evaluate the employee's performance during the training period?"

4. "I read in Business Week that a major competitor, XYZ Corp., is increasing its market share in your main market. What plans does your firm have to regain its lost market share?"

5. "Can you describe for me what a work week is really like as a salesperson for Tasty Pops?"

6. "I am excited about the possibility of working for XYZ Corp., but I am also concerned about the turnover rate among your new hires. What accounts for the high turnover rate and are any steps being taken to correct this situation?" (Obviously, you only ask a question of this type if you are sure of your facts, that is, there actually is a high turnover rate).

7. How many individuals complete your training program each year?

8. When does the training program begin?

9. What is the length and structure of the training program?

10. Do most trainees advance fairly rapidly through the program?

11. What career paths have others generally followed after completing the program?

12. How does the position and the department contribute to the overall company mission and philosophy?

13. What is a typical day (assignment) for a ______ in your company?

14. What characteristics best describes individuals who are successful in this position?

15. Does the position offer exposure to other facets of your organization?

16. What other positions and/or departments will I interact with most?

17. To whom does this position report?

18. How much decision-making authority and autonomy are given to new employees?

19. How will my performance be evaluated?

20. How often are performance reviews given? By whom?

21. What are the opportunities for advancement?

22. Does your organization encourage its employees to pursue additional education?

23. How would you describe the organization's culture/environment?

24. What makes your organization different from its competitors?

25. What industry-wide trends are likely to affect your organization's strengths and weaknesses?

26. How would you describe you organization's personality and management style?

27. How is the work environment affected by the organization's management style?.