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Savings Account: Questions to ask
Ask questions during your job interview
Last time, we focused a bit on salary. Of course, money is an important part of the interview, but don't let it dominate the discussion.
It's a good thing to also talk about the job! First of all, you'll want to know what you're expected to do, and second, it's an excellent way to get the conversation away from money and show the interviewer that it's not the only thing you're about — even if it is!
Asking questions also demonstrates that you're interested in the job, the company, and the industry. Even though you haven't been hired (yet), you're engaged. That's good. Just be cool; don't start chattering like a parrot or make it appear that you're overly inquisitive. Things could backfire for you if they think you're some kind of spy or reporter!
Every job varies, but a good way to start is to ask who you'd be reporting to and working with. You don't necessarily need names, just titles or positions. This is a sneaky way to find out a bunch of things: for example, if there are other people doing the same job that you're interviewing for, they're probably pretty busy … or else the other guys are leaving. Ask! "Am I replacing anyone?" It's good to know. You might be stepping into a potential political minefield. Try discovering the circumstances of any departures. Did they jump or were they pushed?
How's business? Is the company in good shape? Have there been any layoffs lately? (It's not unheard of to fill empty positions while eliminating others.) Who's the competition and how are they doing?
What kind of computer will you be using, Mac or PC? If it makes a difference to you, it would be good to know. It might even be a point of negotiation if they offer you the gig.
It's a good thing to also talk about the job! First of all, you'll want to know what you're expected to do, and second, it's an excellent way to get the conversation away from money and show the interviewer that it's not the only thing you're about — even if it is!
Asking questions also demonstrates that you're interested in the job, the company, and the industry. Even though you haven't been hired (yet), you're engaged. That's good. Just be cool; don't start chattering like a parrot or make it appear that you're overly inquisitive. Things could backfire for you if they think you're some kind of spy or reporter!
Every job varies, but a good way to start is to ask who you'd be reporting to and working with. You don't necessarily need names, just titles or positions. This is a sneaky way to find out a bunch of things: for example, if there are other people doing the same job that you're interviewing for, they're probably pretty busy … or else the other guys are leaving. Ask! "Am I replacing anyone?" It's good to know. You might be stepping into a potential political minefield. Try discovering the circumstances of any departures. Did they jump or were they pushed?
How's business? Is the company in good shape? Have there been any layoffs lately? (It's not unheard of to fill empty positions while eliminating others.) Who's the competition and how are they doing?
What kind of computer will you be using, Mac or PC? If it makes a difference to you, it would be good to know. It might even be a point of negotiation if they offer you the gig.
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