Questions to Ask an Employer on a Phone Interview

Asking questions during a telephone interview helps you gather information about employers.

The Office of Career Services at Southeastern Louisiana University advises job candidates to always ask employers questions during interviews. If you prepare these questions ahead of time, you will show the interviewer that you have an interest in the company and the open job position. For best results, ask questions tailored to each potential employer instead of asking interviewers generic questions.

Employee Communication

An on-site interview gives you the opportunity to observe how employees communicate with each other. You do not have this advantage during a telephone interview, so ask the interviewer about the communication methods employees and managers use to complete their work. Some companies allow employees to communicate via instant messaging, while others use email or telephone calls to share information. Asking this question will give you an idea of what to expect should you get the job.

Equipment and Software

Since a telephone interview does not give you an opportunity to see the computers and equipment used by company employees, use your interview time to learn more about the software programs, computers and office equipment used by your potential employer. The questions you should ask depend upon the type of position you want. If you interview for a clerical position, focus your questions on things like word processing programs, scanners, copy machines and other equipment typically used by secretaries, administrative assistants and other clerical workers. If you interview for a position in the financial field, ask questions about stock charting software, financial analysis tools and spreadsheet programs.

Departmental Structure

Some interviewers introduce job candidates to other department members during on-site interviews. This allows candidates to learn about the structure of the department and how each employee contributes to the achievement of departmental goals. Since a telephone interview does not give you this opportunity, ask your interviewer about the roles of each employee in the department. This will give you some insight into what your role as an employee would be if the employer hired you.

Employee Relations

Because telephone interviewees do not have the opportunity to observe employees, you will have to ask the interviewer about company-employee relations initiatives and job satisfaction. Discuss the programs available to improve work-life balance or help employees resolve personal issues that affect their ability to concentrate on work. Some companies offer employee assistance programs, wellness programs and seminars designed to help employees deal with issues such as smoking cessation, weight loss and stress management. If a company spends the money and effort required to sustain these programs, that indicates its commitment to employees.

Training and Development

Those who speak with an interviewer via telephone lose the opportunity to see training and development programs in action. If you have an interest in learning new skills or keeping your current skills up to date, ask the interviewer about the training and development programs offered by the employer. Some companies offer workshops, seminars and hands-on training programs designed to enhance career development or prepare employees for promotions. Discussing this topic will allow you determine if the company is a good fit for you.

References

• Southeastern Louisiana University: The Telephone Interview
• Virginia Tech: Questions to Ask Employers During Interviews

Resources

• University of Wisconsin-La Crosse: Phone Interview Tips