This post was provided by Claudia Allen, writer and editor at the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). NACE connects campus recruiting and career services professionals, and provides best practices, trends, research, professional development, and conferences.

Interviewers will expect you to ask questions—be prepared for this important part of the interview. Asking thoughtful questions is a way to show the person interviewing you that you’ve researched the organization, you’re interested in the job, and that you have initiative. Failure to ask thoughtful questions will likely be seen as a negative.

This is also your chance to decide if this is the right job and organization for you.

When preparing questions before your interview, be sure the check the organization’s website—you don’t want to ask questions that are already covered online. Base your questions on your research on the organization and on information that comes to light during the interview.

Here are examples of questions you can ask (and why you should ask them):

  1. What do you do in a typical work day? In a typical week?

    (You’re showing interest in life on the job in the organization.)

  2. With whom would I be working? Who would be my supervisor?

    (You’re looking seriously at your potential place in the organization.)

  3. What are the key challenges facing the person in this position? What are your expectations for the role?

    (You’re asking about your fit within the company and your future with the organization.)

  4. Why did you choose to work for this company?

    (This is a great question to ask anyone you meet during your interview. It gives a recruiter a chance to “sell” the company and gives you insight into what others enjoy about working for the organization.)

  5. How would you describe your company culture?

    (Use this question to help determine whether you and the company are a good match.)

  6. What is the natural career progression for employees with my skill set?

    (You’re demonstrating that you’re thinking about a long-term future with the company.)

  7. Does this organization have a formal mentor or coaching program? How is it structured?

    (This illustrates that you are interested in being the best employee you can be.

  8. What kind of internal and external training do you provide?

    (Again, this question illustrates your desire to excel in the job.)

After you’ve asked your questions, restate your interest in the organization and ask for the job.

Then, ask a few last questions: What is the next step in the hiring process? When will you make your decision? May I call you? When is a good time?

Have other suggestions to stand out as a job candidate? Post them below!