The position
- Why is the job open?
- How long has it been open?
- What happened to the previous incumbent?
- What would your specific responsibilities be?
- Are the goals set for the position realistic and attainable?
- Can you successfully accomplish the responsibilities of the position?
- What is your growth potential in this position?
- How does this position fit into your short-term and long-term goals?
- Do the daily work activities appeal to you?
- Will you be developing new skills and experience?
- Are the demands of the job compatible with your desired lifestyle?
Your supervisor
- How long has he/she been in the position?
- To whom does he/she report?
- What is his/her growth potential?
- Do you think you can work well with this person?
Future opportunities
- What might I expect to be doing over the next three to five years?
- How much freedom do employees have to determine their own job movement and duties?
- What could be done if an employee does not feel challenged or satisfied?
- Are lateral or rotational job moves available to provide broader experience?
- How do promotional opportunities become available?
Employer's continuing education programs
- How are employees able to stay current on changes and trends in their field?
- How are employees encouraged to continue their professional development over the long term?
- How have employees taken advantage of employer sponsored continuing education programs?
- What kind of training is provided for prospective supervisors or managers?
Quality of management
- What is the quality of the company's management?
- What are the strengths and weaknesses of management?
- What are management's basic philosophies in managing the business and employees?
- What do your employer's managers and supervisors have in common?
- How does a person become a manager or supervisor at this employer?
- Does the management team consist of new hires or people promoted from within?
- Does the company have a high retention rate of employees or a problem with attrition?
Employer's values
- What are the employer's values? What does the employer stand for?
- How are the employer's values reflected in everyday activities?
- What kind of people are most successful or satisfied at your company?
Employer's compensation philosophy
- What is the employer's compensation philosophy compared with other employers?
- What kind of increase might I expect over the first several years?
- How are individual increases determined?
- How are changes to the benefits package made to keep it up to date with employee needs?
Adapted from Planning Job Choices: 1997 by Keith Johnson