University of California Berkeley Career Guide - Flipbook - Page 42
Interviewing
Asking Questions During the Interview
When an employer gives you the opportunity to ask them questions, take advantage of it! Asking questions demonstrates your sincere interest in the position and organization. NOT asking questions gives the impression that you aren’t
interested in the position.
Organizational Culture Questions
Concluding The Interview
• Formal career planning with supervisor/mentor
• How often performance is reviewed (especially in
the first year)
• Flex-schedule; telecommuting
• Socializing/team-building activities
• Communication and leadership style of managers
• Opportunity for new challenges/growth
opportunities
• Dress code
• Community involvement
• Support networks, mentoring, diversity initiatives
As the interview draws to an end, be sure to:
• Ask about next steps
• Understand the employer’s time frame
• Thank the interviewer
• Get a business card for follow up, or ask if you can
connect with them on LinkedIn
• Reiterate your interest in the position
Avoid Asking About....
• Salary and benefits (wait until you are given a
formal offer)
• Personal information about the recruiter or other
employees
Interviewer’s Professional Background
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Why interviewer chose the employer
What keeps interviewer working with employer
Roles interviewer has held
How has employer helped interviewer prepare
for roles
Inquiries That Stem From Your Pre-Interview
Research
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Training/professional development for new hires
Detailed questions about the job
Future focus for the employer
Employer responses to challenges (ask tactfully)
Horizontal (generalist) training/ vertical (promotions)
movement
• What it is like to live in employer location; relocation
process
Career Tip:
Finding your match during the interview process involves
creating synergy between what the employer wants and what
you have to offer, plus making sure what you are seeking in a
job is what they have to offer.
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