Questions Applicants Can Ask

On a First Interview ...

• How long have you been working here?
• What has been your career path? Where did you start within this organization/business/agency?
• What is your educational background?
• What do you like about your job and working here? What do you dislike?
• What is your philosophy about (industry-specific)?
• How would you describe yourself as a supervisor?
• What are you looking for in your job applicants?
• How does the future look for this organization?
• What plans do you have for expansion/downsizing?
• How many employees work here? In your other locations (if applicable)?
• What are the opportunities for advancement? Relocation? Travel?
• How are employees evaluated here?
• How will my success be measured? How will I know if my job performance is satisfactory, above expectations or unsatisfactory?
• What type of dress code is required for your employees?
• What is the organization’s commitment to community service, employee development, diversity in the workplace, preservation of the environment etc.?
• How would you describe the work environment here?
• How would you describe the supervisor-subordinate relationships here?
• What is your time line for hiring for this job?
• Do you believe that you have all the information necessary about me to make your next decision? Is there anything else I can tell you about myself?

If you are invited back for a second interview:

• What is the starting salary for this job/position?
• What benefits does the company provide (e.g. health insurance, tuition reimbursement, childcare, vacation, family leave)?
• What types of raises are given? Based on merit (quality of job performance) or seniority (length of service)?
• Plus any others that would follow-up from the discussion you had during your first interview.

These are questions that are appropriate for a SECOND INTERVIEW ONLY. Typically it is not appropriate to ask about salary and benefits during the first interview.