Questions to Ask Recruiters
When the recruiter asks, “Do you have any questions?”, it’s important to have a few ready. It shows you’re interested in the company and are serious about your career plans. Tailor the questions you ask to your career interests and goals. Don’t ask questions just for the sake of asking questions — make sure it is information that you need. Also, try to avoid asking questions that are answered on the company’s web site or marketing materials. Recruiters know when you haven’t done your homework! Here are some suggestions:
- My major is _______________ (fill in your major), what advice would you give a student about to graduate with this degree?
- What do I need to know about the application process?
- I went online and filled out your application for the ___________ (fill in with job you have applied for) and I am really interested in _____________ (employer name) and was curious what else I might do to help me get a foot in the door?
- Are there some specific skills, work experience or educational background that can make me more competitive for the ____________________ (position name)?
- What are the primary results a person in this position would be expected to achieve?
- What percentage of time would be devoted to each of the responsibilities of the position?
- What challenges and opportunities are associated with the position?
- Does your company have formal training programs, or do employees receive on-the-job training? Who is eligible?
- How does the company measure performance? How often are performance reviews given?
- What are the backgrounds of other employees in your company or department?
- Can you describe the corporate culture?
- Are internships available?
Remember: Every contact with an employer is an interview, the job fair is an opportunity to find out more about what the employers you are interested are looking for in potential candidates.
Exploring Careers: Questions to help you explore
First let the employer know that you are in the process of exploring different careers. The following are questions and ideas to help you gather information in order to make a career decision.
- What specific tasks would I perform on this job? (For example, a salesclerk would answer questions, tidy displays, unpack merchandise, write sales slips, make change, and so on.)
- What is the job environment likely to be?
- What is the typical career path in this area of specialization? Can I progress at my own pace, or is the career path structured? How long does it usually take to move from one step to the next in this career path?
- How much contact and exposure to management is there?
- How do you see the jobs in this field changing over the next five years?
- What can I do to prepare myself for such changes?
- What would be the rewards of working at this job?
- I would find this job particularly satisfying because: (review your passions, values, interests, and life goals for guidance.)
- Is this job compatible with my work behavioral style? If so, in what ways?
- How much training or education would I need? Where could I get it? Am I willing to make this kind of commitment?
- Does this job require specific physical attributes or abilities (strength or health requirements, 20/20 vision, and so on)? If so, what are they? Do I meet them?
- What could I expect to earn as a beginner in this field? What is the average mid-career salary?
- Does this meet my salary requirements?
- What is the projected outlook for this career? Will there be many job openings when I am ready to go to work?
- What aptitudes, strengths, and talents does this job call for? Do I have them? Can I get them?
- What can I do today to begin preparing for this job?
- What classes must I take in school to qualify for this job?