Interview questions

[*ALFIE*]

I have a job interview next week. I am preparing myself for it but can anyone suggests any questions that I can ask the employer on the day when they ask if have any questions ? I really want to ensure him/her that I am interested in the job. Any ideas ?

[WendyS]

If you offer me the job, can you tell me where I'm likely to be in three and five years time? What are my development prospects? What internal processes do you employ to help employees learn and develop themselves?

Will I be able to transfer to other functions within the company to improve my skills?

What forms of company communication do you use to update employees on what is happening within the organisation?

Why this the person previously doing the job leave?

[january_bug]

I've done quite well from asking (if appropriate) - "Could you tell me a bit about the work you've been doing this/last week?" "Where would I fit in/be able to contribute to the team on similar projects in the future?"

Getting them to talk about themselves will usually make them happy, and it shows an interest in the business and a willingness to contribute. Good luck!

[c00ky83]

I love that WendyS, asking them where you'll be in 5 years! Turning the tables on their usual question!

How about..."Is there such a thing as a typical day - and what might it involve?"

[Trotbot]

Try to start your question by showing knowledge and reseach e.g. 'I see from your website that you are an investor in people and place emphasis on training. What sort of training courses are available for this position?'

[pagey]

Asking employers questions is great for your interview (just make sure you listen to the answersfully). Is shows you are discerning and are looking for the right employer and are not just prepared to settle for any old job. Good luck!

[Dassie]

With a view to long term employment, ask them if they have a pension scheme.

[january_bug]

And don't ask anything that was in the literature/on the website that you should have read for yourself before you got there.

I'd personally say that asking what's in it for you, at interview, is the wrong time. If they make you an offer (which of course only happens if you sell yourself well at interview) THEN you can ask questions like that to help you decide whether or not you really really want to take it. But the interview is a time to convince THEM that they want YOU, not vice versa.

Others will say/have said different, so you have a choice of approaches to take. Hopefully you'll tell us which you took and if you got an offer! :-)