Turn it into a Conversation

When it comes to interviews you most likely assume; sweaty palms, a red face, stuttering through your answers to the questions you can't even remember and thinking, "This is the longest interview of MY LIFE!" But don't worry you not the only one that feels that way. The trick is not to look at the interview as a lie detector test, but more of a conversation with people who are doing what you hope to do one day down the road.

From my experience, the key to changing attitudes about interviews is- probably not what most of you want to hear, but it's to be prepared. Believe me, the latter has been invaluable- no matter what type of interview I've had.

Once you sit down and the interview begins, you'll probably think, Did I prepare enough? What type of questions should I be ready to answer? When the interviewer is done asking questions and looks at me and says, "Is there anything you would like to ask me?" What do I say? Yes, no? If I do have questions, which would be beneficial to ask?

One thing I've learned is not to be shy about asking questions, this shows that you're truly interested in the company.

I have a list of questions I always pull from that match what is most important to me in a work environment:

• What is the typical career path for an entry-level employee?
• How can my position help the company achieve it's goals?
• What's the company's vision for the future?
• What's the ratio for teamwork versus individual work?
• How is the company organized? How often do entry-level employees interact with executive leadership?
• How do you think your competition views you?
• How can my position help the company achieve its goals?
• Does your company have a mentorship program? Is it formal or informal?
• How does your company's evaluation process work?
  
• Do you have professional development programs? What types?
• How did you get where you are now?
• How would you describe the culture here?
• May I have your business card?

This last one is important, you just spent the last 30-60 minutes speaking to an individual within the industry you are trying to break into. You never know when their business card might come in handy.

Having questions prepared is critical- and not to make you look better in the eyes of the interviewer, but to help you understand the company and position better. Think of things you need to know about the company before agreeing to work there, and don't be shy about asking the person interviewing you. And if your having trouble thinking of your own, check out this website...

What are some other good questions to ask during an interview?