6 job-landing questions to ask at an interview

Question #1: Is there formal training for interns or new hires? What can I expect during my first day and week on the job?

Knowing what to expect and if you will get any formal training when you start is essential. You will want to be listening closely when the interviewer answers this question, since it could be a good indicator of whether you should take the position.

Having an easy transition into your first work experience roles will allow you to get comfortable. You can use the training period to sharpen your skills and get to know your colleagues.

Question #2: What are a few key qualities you like in your most successful interns?

You have lined up an internship or placement interview and now it’s time to show your potential employer your desire to succeed. As a student, you know the importance of asking for what you need to do to ace your role.

Asking about key qualities and the skills needed for job growth gives you a clear idea of what you need to brush up on for success. Your interviewer will surely be impressed by your drive to grow at their company.

Question #3: Are there any resources students can take advantage of during the duration of the placement/internship?

Since you already know the key qualities that will make you stand out as an intern or new hire, it is important to gather the appropriate resources. What value can you get from the experience?

Students can often move on from an internship or placement with more growth potential. You can develop a network for future career opportunities, mentors, and even a job offer.

Question #4: What type of projects will I be working on during my internship/placement?

This question is often overlooked by students interviewing for their first job opportunity. Internships and placement years are an opportunity to grow and develop the skill set to land the future career of your dreams.

Angela Smith of The Daily Muse suggests, “for starters, make sure you and the employer are on the same page when it comes to the basics of the job and what success will look like.”

You certainly don’t want to be making copies, delivering mail, and fetching coffee for months on end. As a student looking to add to your professional experience, you want to ensure you will be involved in projects like any other employee in the company.

If your interviewer has a mixed response to this question, you may want to continue searching for a role that better fits your professional goals.

Question #5: How many interns or placed employees receive full-time job offers? Is there an opportunity for growth?

This is a very important question if you are interviewing with a company that hires graduates. Asking this question tells your interviewer your intentions for a future full-time position with the company.

If there doesn’t seem like there is room for growth, you may want to reconsider. Work experience is the foot in the door for many students, and one you might not want to miss out on.

Question #6: How would you describe the company culture?

As a student, you know the importance of fitting in and feeling comfortable in your surroundings.

Your internship or job placement should be no different, and asking about company culture will ensure you transition splendidly.

“Even simple cultural components, like a set of common values or a mission statement, can align workers under a single, identifiable banner,” says Jayson Demers of Entrepreneur.

The value behind company culture is simple. You have to be happy where you work, regardless if it’s an internship or a full-time career position.

Achieving your professional goals and moving your career forward in a powerful way may seem slightly out of sight as a student. However, the networking and skills you develop during your work experience will certainly clear a path to great things.