An interview is a two way street. It’s not only a time where the interviewer is trying to determine the right candidate, but it’s also a time where you, the candidate, has the opportunity to ask questions that will help you decide if this is the right position for you. If you have landed an interview, there are some important interview questions you should ask yourself as well as the interviewer.

During an interview, you’re expected to ask questions, it’s an integral part of the process.  Hearing answers to questions you might have about the company and/or position could help determine whether the position is not only right for you but the company as well.

Take a little time to do some soul searching and asking yourself what you need from a job is the first step to figuring out what questions to ask. Ideally, you want to ask questions that demonstrate your interest in the company, as well as professional development questions.

Here are some important interview questions you should as yourself as well as interviews so you get the most out of an interview.

Ask yourself:

Does this position meet my needs? This is the first question you should ask yourself. If you don’t have all the answers, make sure you ask interview questions pertaining to professional development, work/life balance, and company culture. Evaluate the pros and cons of the position and look at what the company is offering so you can make the most educated decision that is best for you.

Do I understand what is expected of me? To make a educated decision about a job, you need to understand what is expected of you. Ask the interviewer questions like,  what are the managers goals for employers and the position as well as what is expected in the first 90 days? Having answers to these questions will help you determine if you have the right qualifications for the position.

Can I grow professionally at this company? Every position offers some type of growth but does this position provide value to you career? When you’re weighing the options of wether to accept a position, take look at the responsibilities and opportunities for growth at the company. Will you be attending conferences? Do you have the opportunity to build on skills or learn a new skill set? All of these questions should be thought of before accepting a position.

If you were offered the position, do you have enough information to make decision? If you answered no to this question, do some more research and prepare any questions you might have for the interview. You need to have as much information as possible for help make your decision.

Ask The Interviewer:

How do you evaluate performance? Every company has their own way of doing things. Some are more formal, with an annual review, while others have causal conversations when necessary. Whatever the answer is, you will get a better understanding of how the company works and how important professional development is to the company.

Why is the position open? This will give you insight why the position is available. If this is a new position, great! It shows that the company is growing. If someone left, this gives you an opportunity to understand why.

How do employees grow professionally? Understanding how you will grow and move up at a company is a key factor in accepting a position. Asking this question shows you’re willing to work hard for your company but also gives you an opportunity to understand the priorities of the company while giving you insight into if there are opportunities for upward movement in the company.

What is a typical day here? If you have any questions on what the position will entail or what you’re expected to do, this is the question to ask. Understanding position expectations will give you a better chance to make an educated decision on whether to pursue the position or not.

Is there anything else I can provide to help you make your decision? This is a simple question that is always worth asking. It gives you a chance to cover all your bases while showing your eagerness to join the team.