Questions to Ask in An Interview

 Nearly always, at the end of your interview, the interviewer will ask if you have any questions.

You should always have one or two prepared in advance as having no questions at all makes you appear rather passive and uninterested. You want to appear bright and enthusiastic, let your questions project that image.

Good topics to ask about the company include:

• How has the company grown / developed over the past few years?
• Ask about the competitive environment / the industry sector generally.
• How does the company plan to grow in the next few years?
• Who's who in the management structure of the company? Who do you report to?
• Ask for more details on the company products, especially if they are complex or numerous
• Ask about the working environment and company culture, i.e. is it team based?, dynamic? Are there flat reporting structures?

When asked if you have any questions about the position, ask some of the following:-

• What are the position's main goals and responsibilities?
• How are these goals measured and what resources are available to ensure they're met?
• What is the reporting structure in the department, and to whom will you report?
• What are the computer / business systems used for the position?
• How many people will you be working with in the company / department?

It is probably not a good idea to ask about the salary or benefits at this stage - remember, you are motivated by the higher ideals of 'opportunity', 'challenge' and 'increased responsibility'! First, you have to demonstrate that you can do the job, that you want the job and that you will fit in. When you receive an offer, you will have a chance to discuss salary details at that stage.