In every employment interview, there comes a time when the hiring firm asks, “So, what questions do you have for us?” Aside from questions about job responsibilities, career opportunities, compensation and benefits, the workplace responses to the shifts of the last few years suggest there are 5 other questions you might also want to consider posing:
5 Interview Questions You Need To Ask
- WHAT ARE THE HYBRID WORK ARRANGEMENTS?
Whether or not the firm now has everyone, most or some back in the workplace, they likely have a plan for those who work remotely, or will need to work remotely when exposed to or recovering from COVID. What are the expectations around your communications and performance when working remotely? - WHAT ARE THE TECHNOLOGY POLICIES FOR REMOTE AND HYBRID WORK?
Part of this question focuses on what hardware and software will be provided to you for use outside the office. The other deals with the ability of employees to buy and use their technology. In either case, security and backup protocols will be important. - HOW DOES THE COMPANY HANDLE SICK LEAVE?
Significant legislation has recently been passed on this subject. You should be clear on the policies for caring for a sick relative and working remotely when doing so, within those new laws. - WHAT ARE EXPECTATIONS ON APPEARANCE?
This includes the dress code in the office and in virtual interactions. This will ensure you are appropriately attired for a better first impression, but also tell you a lot about the hiring company’s culture. Included here are both religious garb and required safety protection for hairstyles. - HOW DOES THE COMPANY STAND ON MARIJUANA USE AND TESTING?
While marijuana is still illegal under federal law (but perhaps for not much longer), its allowed usage for medical only or recreational purposes requires companies to decide how to test for and respond to usage, and to determine what constitutes impairment. Whether or not you use marijuana, those policies offer another window into the corporate culture.
You may feel uncomfortable asking these questions, if only that these may affect the interviewer’s opinion of you (even though they shouldn’t). An Abel Personnel recruiter can greatly assist here, asking the questions for you, even before the interview. Seeking that level of support in your job search? Connect with us at abelpersonnel.com.
Sourced from HR Dive, “5 employee handbook sections that may need an overhaul in 2023,” Katie Clarie, November 21, 2022
