I need some suggestions on questions to ask in an interview. Ya know how they always ask you if you have any questions at the end? This part is always difficult because I don't want to ask a question that might seem silly or make me look like I haven't done my research. I know the types of questions will vary from job position to job position, but what are some general intelligent questions to ask?

Also, any words of wisdom or advice in preparing for and presenting oneself during an interview? I've made to round 2, and I really want to do well. It's a city job.

Start with this....

http://www.collegerecruiter.com/pages/articles/article35.htm

Good luck to you.

__________________
1980 300D - Veggie Burner !

Start with this....

http://www.collegerecruiter.com/pages/articles/article35.htm

Good luck to you.

What to ask:
How would you describe the responsibilities of the position?
How would you describe a typical week/day in this position?
Is this a new position? If not, what did the previous employee go on to do?
What is the company's management style?
Who does this position report to? If I am offered the position, can I meet him/her?
How many people work in this office/department?
How much travel is expected?
Is relocation a possibility?
What is the typical work week? Is overtime expected?
What are the prospects for growth and advancement?
How does one advance in the company?
Are there any examples?
What do you like about working here?
What don't you like about working here and what would you change?
Would you like a list of references?
If I am extended a job offer, how soon would you like me to start?
What can I tell you about my qualifications?
When can I expect to hear from you?
Are there any other questions I can answer for you?


What not to ask:
What does this company do? (Do your research ahead of time!)
If I get the job when can I take time off for vacation? (Wait until you get the offer to mention prior commitments)
Can I change my schedule if I get the job? (If you need to figure out the logistics of getting to work don't mention it now...)
Did I get the job? (Don't be impatient.)

__________________
1980 300D - Veggie Burner !

Ask: If a car is traveling at the speed of light and you turn on the headlights, would anything happen?

(old Steven Wright bit)

Ask:
If a company ships styrofoam. What do they pack it in?

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1980 300D - Veggie Burner !

When I'm preparing my candidates for interviews I counsel them to ask questions that show their interest in the company, department and job itself. Here are some of the questions I suggest:

1) What are the common traits of successful employees at this company?

2) What are your expectations for a successful employee in this position?

3) What do you enjoy about working for this company?

4) How does this role fit into the makeup of the department? How does the department fit into the corporate structure?

5) What is the greatest challenge I would face if I was to be the successful candidate?

It is mandatory that you do serious research on the company. Know who they are, who they compete with, how they present themselves as a company (in terms of goals, corporate values, etc). You can then use this information to talk about how your values/goals align with the company's values/goals.

Be ready to answer the following questions:

1) What do you know about our company?

2) Why do you want to work for our company?

3) Why should we hire you?

Be specific in your answers to all three of these questions. Your research will help you answer the first two, but your answer must be specific to *that company*. Make them feel like you want *them*, not just a job.

The third one should be include your accomplishments/value-added statements. Don't be afraid to toot your horn here but make sure you can back up any statement/assertion with a workplace example or fact.

Good luck.

__________________
Jonathan

2011 Mazda2
2000 E320 4Matic Wagon
1994 C280 (retired)

If the interviewer is an attractive older woman you could ask if there are any entry-level positions with some flexibility since you are an extremely hard worker.

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LOL.
You nasty thinker, you.

(BTW - How's the new dog coming along? Field training yet? Not meaning to hi-jack here. Just been thinking of it, as we have a new “hunter” in the family as well.)

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1980 300D - Veggie Burner !

Thanks,I crave the validation of a well-timed compliment.........

Shadow is taking to field training with the same relish and perfect discipline as his household training,truly an eager and intelligent pup.

As of last weekend he lost his gun-shyness,no more flinching when I shoot a .12 gauge right over him provided I say the right command word "LOOK"just before I pull the trigger he knows it's coming.

__________________

Nevertheless, showing up sans pants is generally an interview faux-pas.

True,but only if one wishes to make their membership known.

__________________

I think I see now why you are self-employed, Carleton.

__________________
" We have nothing to fear but the main stream media itself . . . ."- Adapted from Franklin D Roosevelt for the 21st century

OBK #55

1998 Lincoln Continental - Sold
Max 1984 300TD 285,000 miles - Sold
The Dee8gonator 1987 560SEC 196,000 miles - Sold
Orgasmatron - 2006 CLS500 90,000 miles
2002 C320 Wagon 122,000 miles
2016 AMG GTS 12,000 miles

Dress carefully!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yTFRFEmJWek

be serious guys:

When finishing the interview ask a few questions about the company and their product.........and a copy of the sexual harassment policy so you can make your decision about working there.


Works every time.

Ecellent advice.

The only thing I would add to it, not knowing the nature of the company or the position, would be a possible inquiry about how your performance is evaluated and how feedback is communicated to you. Is it through annual or semi-annual reviews with your superiors? Some other means?


Since this is your second interview with the company, don't be caught off guard if it's a two or three on one session. The initlal interviewer and maybe his superior(s) or partner(s) depending on the company.
Take some confidence in the fact that you have gotten over two hurdles already- resume screening and initial inteview.

Don't know what city you are in, but make sure your salary requirements are commensurate with the level for your background and city of employment.
They know what the competition is paying and so should you. You probably discussed salary in general terms at the first interview. Don't get hung up on it, but don't agree to something you can't afford to live with "just to get a foot in the door." Your stay may be short-lived and that does not look good on a resume.

Good luck.