4 Questions to Ask to Reveal Company Culture

I doesn’t matter if you are attending an online job interview or sitting down face-to-face, the questions you ask a potential employer are as important as the ones they ask you. Of course, the interview is an opportunity for the company to learn about you. But don’t forget to take advantage of the interview process to find out those things that aren’t readily available on their website — things like company culture and climate. According to CBS News, there are four questions you should ask at every interview to help decide if the job is truly a good match for you. 1. Why is the job available? The last person to hold the position you are applying for may have left the job because they retired, relocated with a spouse or chose to become a stay-at-home parent. But if the interviewer is hesitant to tell you why your predecessor left or seems uncomfortable, it could indicate a tumultuous or acrimonious parting. 2. How is success defined? Ask how your job performance will be rated. Metrics and numerical data are helpful tools, but a company that looks at nothing but may be too focused on the bottom line. A company that is equally concerned with how you reach goals may be nicer to work for and more willing to listen to employee suggestions and input. 3. Do employees have access to management? Companies that value communication and cooperation foster a company culture that encourages employees to interact with management. While the upper echelon may not be involved in every detail of daily operation, companies with the happiest employees provide them with opportunities to share ideas and opinions with management and offer input. 4. How long is typical tenure and how likely is advancement? Satisfied, happy employees aren't likely to change jobs unless they must. Companies with a higher turnover rate than average for their industry either aren't nice places to work or don't offer promotions and opportunities for advancement. Remember that you shouldn't be the only one answering questions at a job interview. Asking your interviewer the right questions helps you learn if a company's work environment is a good match for you and lets the interviewer know you're looking for a long-term fit.