It is both valid and expected that you will have questions for the person who interviews you, so do your homework!
- Know about the company, its mission and long-term goals.
- Have three or four specific but general questions ready to show that you are seriously pursuing this opportunity.
These questions can be used at the end of the interview. Generally, the interviewer asks "Do you have any questions for me?" If you do not hear this, ask if the interviewer has time to answer a few general questions.
Good questions to ask include:
- What is the next step in the hiring process?
- What would a typical work day look like?
- Why do you like working for this organization/firm/company?
Know that if you are being sent on to a second interview within the company, it is highly likely these questions will be answered as you progress.
Topics to avoid during the first interview
You want the potential employer to know that you are interested in the company and what you have to offer them, so you should focus on the job and the job only until they make an offer.
This means refraining from asking about:
- Salary
- Benefits
- Vacations
- Flex Time
- Raises
These types of specific questions DO have a time and place, but it is not on the first interview. Often, your Avanti Personnel Consultant has the answers to those topics. When the time comes to discuss salary, be open to negotiate.
Once we have identified a potential job for you, Avanti’s team of professional Personnel Consultants can help you with your interview preparation.