The Best Of: Great Questions for Interviewees to Ask During a Job Interview

“You will never get a second chance to make a good first impression.” How often have you heard that phrase? How often have you taken those words to heart? At AES we live them every day. Every time we pick up a phone for a phone interview or speak to a client about a recent in-person interview, we’re reminded of the importance of a quality first impression.

So, how do you make a good first impression during an interview? While there are a number of crucial elements to any interview, including quality experience and well thought-out responses to the interviewer’s questions, many people neglect to follow-through with one of the easier opportunities within their reach: thoughtful questions.

It’s true — thoughtful, well-versed questions help to prove that you’re not only prepared for the interview itself, but that you’re interested in being fully prepared for the actual position. Additionally, given that an interviewer typically reserves a time for questions at the end of an interview, it’s a fantastic opportunity to leave them with a positive opinion of your qualifications and competencies.

While not all-encompassing, the below are a handful of quality questions you might ask during an interview:

1. Can you tell me exactly what I would be expected to do if I were hired for this position?

2. Can you walk me through a typical day here at Company X?

3. What type of training would I receive for the position?

4. What are the performance expectations for this position?

5. What are the career paths for this department and what sort of advancements could I work toward?

6. Will I be working with a team? If so, can you tell me a little about all of them?

7. How would you describe the work environment here?

8. Where do you see the company in five years? 10?

9. What do you love about working here?

10. What are the next steps in the interview process?

As a reminder — always remember to research the company and learn a little about the hiring manager. Dress professionally, arrive 10 minutes early and have your best “game face” on. You’re selling yourself — this is your hour to shine.