The Vice President closes her notebook and says she has no further questions. You sit back and let out a sigh of relief. You knocked that interview out of the park and now you can relax, right? Not exactly.

When the interviewer asks you if you have any questions before the interview ends, it really isn’t considered optional. This is your time to show that you have researched the company and really understand their core values, mission, goals and objectives, major players, and key accomplishments.

In all actuality, you should want to ask questions. Never forget that you are also interviewing THEM (even
When people leave this company (department), what is the number one reason they leave?

Do you sponsor employee volunteer programs within the community?
in an employer’s market). You need to find out if this company’s goals and values fit those of your own. If you don’t, you may find yourself in the wrong job.

Here some questions to get you started in the right direction. The key is to take these sample questions and personalize them to the company, by inserting the information you gathered during your research.

What were your key accomplishments in 2009 (for the company, department)?

What are your objectives for 2010 (for the company, department)?

I noticed that your company won a quality award in 2009. What are your quality goals for 2010?

Don't miss out on this opportunity to show the interviewer what you have learned about their company, and to find out valuable information that can help you decide if this is a company where you would like to work.