Equal Rights in Your Next Interview

Searching for a job can be a crazy process, even for the most experienced of professionals. If you're not busy scanning classified ads, then you're fine-tuning your resume or preparing answers for the toughest interview questions. But it's important to take the time to prepare your own questions, a step that should not be forgotten as you rush between picking up your suit from the drycleaner and contacting your list of references.

An interview is not only about a company learning more about you; it's also your chance to learn more about the company and the open position. A productive interview is not a one-way Q&A session, so always bring a list of possible questions to discuss with your potential employer. A prepared interviewee usually enjoys a more comfortable conversation with their interviewer, where both employer and job seeker have the chance to learn more through a dynamic conversation. Use the following items to start your list, and build onto it with the questions that cover the issues you consider significant in your own career.

The Basics

What is the salary range for this position? What insurance programs are available? Medical? Dental? Optical? Does the company participate in a 401k program? How many vacation days are allowed? How many sick days are allowed?

The Position

Will there be a 6-month or annual review? Is there an official job description for the open position? What will my major responsibilities be? Who will my supervisor be? Will I have more than one supervisor? Will I be managing anyone else? How will my success be measured?

The Company

What type of corporate culture exists at the company? Is it a team-oriented staff, or will I be working alone on projects? What are the company's goals for the next few years? Are there any additional benefits, such as flex-time? How does the company handle pay increases? What is the dress code in the office? Does the company encourage continuing education programs?

Preparing a list of questions for an interview guarantees that you won't miss your opportunity to learn more about the company, and gives you important information that may help you make important career choices in the future. Smart questions show that you are responsible, professional and interested in your own success as well as that of the company. They also make for a better interview, and possibly a better chance of getting the job you've always wanted.