Interview With a Twist?

Maybe you've heard that now is not the time to look for a job. Well, the next time someone tells you that, ask them when is the time. Life is what it is and regardless of the economic outlook, we may find ourselves needing to pound the pavement or in search of a better opportunity.

Regardless of your situation, you'll probably experience some interview jitters. Most of us go into an interview with the objective of impressing the hiring manager. In the back of our minds we want to measure up to their standards. And rightly so. However, the interview is also the time to make sure that the company, the position, and your potential boss are right for you. The best way to discover this is to interview them.

That's right. Flip the script. Once you've answered all of their questions, usually they'll ask if you have any questions for them. And you should. You should go to your job interview with a list of questions written down. You don't need to memorize your questions, because you'll have them written down. Pull them out and be very direct, "I hope you don't mind if I take notes". Then proceed with your list and make note of their responses. Whoever is interviewing you, will know that you came prepared and that is likely how you will perform in that role. As they respond to you, don't be afraid to ask for clarification.

The point is not to put the interviewer on the spot, but to get a feel for the true culture, environment, and position that you are interested in. There's no set number of questions (I usually have about ten) that you should have. Some of them may even be answered during the conversation. This is another good time to ask for further explanation on a subject, It shows you were paying attention. Here's a few sample questions that I've found helpful.

1. What are the department's goals for the year?
2. How is this role important to the company--how does it contribute?
3. If hired, would I be filling a new position or replacing someone?
4. Are sales/projections ahead of last year's?
5. Could you give me a brief tour? I'd like to see where your people work.
6. If hired would I report directly to you or someone else?