Turning the Tables: How to Interview a Potential Employer

We all know it's a good idea to have questions prepared when we head into an interview. It makes us look interested and prepared. But the list of questions you ask a potential employer should be as much about you interviewing them, as them interviewing you. Before you sign on the dotted line, be sure you know what you are getting in to.

When it comes to your job, you want to know more than just your title. Just because the title is similar to previous jobs you've had, doesn't necessarily mean the responsibilities will be the same. Dig deep when it comes to your potential position.

• What role does your department play in the overall organization? For example, does the marketing department lead product development or vice versa?
• Do you or your department have budget oversight? Who has the final decision on where and how the money is spent?
• How many times has this position changed hands? A high number may indicate that the supervising manager cannot be pleased or is not a good leader.

This position may be perfect for the here and now; but what about tomorrow? Make sure your potential company fits into your long-term career goals.

• Does the company encourage, or even fund, continuing education?
• What is a typical career path for someone in this position? Think twice about a company that cannot lay out a clear growth path for you.
• Does the company promote from within? You will only be able to follow a career path if the company believes in growing employees' skill sets and responsibilities.

Salary negotiations can be uncomfortable, but the full details of the company's benefit structure are important.

• Does the company have a health plan? If so, what percentage of the premium does the company cover? Don't forget to factor your portion in to your negotiations-it will affect your take-home pay.
• Does the company contribute to a 401(k) or similar retirement plan?
• If bonuses have been mentioned as part of your compensation package, what criteria will be used to determine eligibility? Does the bonus depend on your performance only, or does the department or company performance play a part?

Understand how the company is performing and how it views itself.

• What is the company's mission or vision for itself? Is it living up to that vision?
• If you are applying for a senior position, ask to review the company's business plan.
• Is the company meeting its revenue goals? If they have fallen short of their goals, it may be worth understanding how the company is funded. If the company is funded through venture capital or bank loans and it is not meeting revenue projections, major changes may be brewing.
• Companies have personalities. Make sure yours matches by asking your prospective boss and others at the company how they would describe an ideal company employee.