List of questions to ask employers at interviews

interviewQuestions.md

Interview Questions You Should Ask

Why me as a candidate?

I like to ask this one so you can gauge if you're just there to make up the numbers or if they're really interested in you and have read your CV/profile.

How can I best prepare for this role before starting?

This question lets them know you're excited not only about the role, but also about starting and self-learning! You're a go getter and that's great! Plus, having this answered will give you a jump start on being prepared for your first day.

Describe a typical week.

Am I going to be in meetings all week? Am I going to be working until my palms are bloody? Are there team lunches? This question will give you a feel for what you're getting yourself into.

What would my immediate responsibilities be?

This question helps give you a good sense of what you should focus on during your first few days and give you a head start if you need to research anything.

What does the career path look like for this role?

Most companies will have career paths thought out - unless it's pretty small.. but even then they should have some sort of clue on how to keep their best employees engaged. Perhaps you're not interested in being a manager, it's best to know right away if there's a path that you can take.

How does your company promote personal growth?

Without advancement, technology wouldn't be where it is today. Companies that aren't interested in training their employees are setting them up for failure down the road. I for one, need proof that a company I'm interviewing with takes that seriously. This one is especially important if you are just getting started in tech and perhaps haven't found your true passion yet. Will this potential company support you in finding what you like and allow you to move into that role?

Is flexibility something you accommodate?

As a parent, this one is a big one for me. If I need to work remotely for a day while school is canceled, or for two while I or my child has the flu, I need to be able to do that without consequence and without judgement. Also consider doctors appointments, vet emergencies, etc.

Do you feel there are any skills currently lacking on the team?

Read: What can I do to be a total rockstar here. Is there a weakness that I can take head on and make the team stronger? If the team has all the skills, and just needs back up.. is that a role you're interested in taking? All good things to know.

What do you like about working here?

Look for hesitation 👀

How much does the company value your work?

What is the absolute worst thing working here in your opinion?

Why should I choose to work here?

What is the biggest change the company has gone through in the last year?

If I were to get the internship position, what key accomplishments would you like to see in this role over the next year?

What's the style of leadership here at [company name]?

What types of people are successful here and which are not?

How did you get your start in the industry?

What do you like about working here?

What is the rhythm of work here? Is there a particular time of year when it's all hands on deck and we're pulling long hours or is it fairly consistent throughout the year?

What type of background and experience are you looking for in this position? What would your ideal candidate look like?

If I were to start tomorrow, what would be the top priority on my to-do list?

What would you say are the top two personality traits someone needs to do this job well?

What improvements or changes do you hope someone filling this role will bring to the company?

Is there anything that stands out to you that makes you think I might not be the right fit for this position?

What is the timeline for making a decision on this position? When should I get back in touch with you?