Many companies will look for interns who exactly know what smart questions to ask in an interview for an internship. They do so because they want to find interns who are really interested in joining their company by turning an internship into a full-time job.
We all know how to ask good questions at work, but do you know how to ask questions in an internship interview? Well, in this article we have exactly covered 31 smart questions that you can ask during your internship interview.
Whether you’ve just graduated, or currently a student, or considering a career change and want to dip your toes into the professional waters through some work experience, it’s crucial to understand how to excel in an internship interview!
Many candidates overlook the fact that an interview is a two-way interaction. It’s not just about answering the questions fired at you; it’s also about asking questions to gain a better understanding of the company and its internship program.
Throughout the interview, not just at the end, make sure to ask thoughtful questions. This demonstrates your genuine enthusiasm for securing a spot in the company’s internship program, casting you in the best possible light.
If you’re aiming to impress your interviewer, commit a few of the questions listed below to memory!
31 Smart Questions To Ask In An Interview For An Internship
Starting your career journey as an internship can be a significant stride toward kickstarting your career. Regardless of whether it’s a paid gig or an unpaid position, the interview phase is a golden chance for both you and the company to delve deeper into each other’s worlds.
In this piece, we’re laying out some examples of questions you can toss at the hiring manager during your upcoming internship interview. It’s a two-way street where you get to know them, and they get to know you.
Internships pave the way for an exciting and fulfilling professional journey. Even if it’s an unpaid stint, the experience gained and the connections made can be invaluable for your future with the company.
These questions are like your compass, guiding you to figure out if this internship is the perfect match for you.
Here are 31 questions to ask in an interview for an internship:
- Can you tell me about the training process?
- Do interns have opportunities for full-time employment at the end of their internship?
- How do you define the company culture?
- What have previous interns done that really made them stand out?
- What types of projects will I be working on during my internship?
- What are key qualities that you see in the most successful interns?
- How will you evaluate my performance?
- How long have you been offering internship positions?
- How much interaction will I have with other employees?
- What are the next steps in the interview process?
- Can you tell me about the onboarding process?
- Can you describe the company’s culture?
- What are the main day-to-day responsibilities involved in this internship?
- What are some essential qualities for successful interns?
- What challenges do you find interns most frequently face in this role?
- What resources do you provide interns to help them succeed?
- How do you evaluate performance for this position?
- Are there opportunities for full-time employment or other advancements?
- What is the next step in this process?
- Do you have any additional questions about my background or qualifications?
- Ask questions specific to the interviewer?
- How will you evaluate my performance?
- How have you managed interns in the past?
- What will a typical workday be like?
- With whom will I be working?
- What are your favorite parts about working here?
- What are some of the common challenges interns usually face in this role/company?
- Could you tell me more about the company’s…?
- How often do you hire interns for full-time jobs?
- Ask one question based on something your interviewer said in the interview?
- What comes next?
31 Questions To Ask In An Interview For An Internship To An Intern
If you are a student or graduate and attending an internship interview and wondering what questions to ask in an internship interview, then here are 31 questions which you can ask to an interviewer or an employer.
Asking these questions will not only increase the chances of you getting an internship, but also makes it easier for the interviewer to be more interested in offering an internship to you.
Let us go through each of the questions one by one:
1. Can you tell me about the training process?
When you pose this essential question, it provides insights into your prospective experience at the company. It’s crucial to determine if you’ll spend your days fetching coffee or engaging in meaningful work and learning opportunities.
If the company boasts a well-defined training program, it signals their commitment to interns, indicating you’ll acquire valuable experience during your internship. Essentially, asking this question helps you gauge whether the internship aligns with your goals or if it’s worth exploring opportunities with a different company.
2. Do interns have opportunities for full-time employment at the end of their internship?
At times, companies extend a full-time job offer to interns who excel in their programs. This typically happens when the company has invested time in nurturing the interns’ growth and is genuinely excited to witness their development.
Asking this question can serve as a source of motivation, inspiring you to put in extra effort throughout your program. It’s an opportunity to showcase that you’re not just a good fit for the company but also someone who can seamlessly integrate into its culture.
3. How do you define the company culture?
Let’s talk about the work culture. It’s crucial to understand the vibe of the office and assess whether it aligns with your personality. The essence of this question is straightforward: you need to find joy in your workplace, even if it’s just for a month!
Even if the interviewer shares their mission statement, it can offer insights into how well employees connect and provide a glimpse into the day-to-day atmosphere of the workplace.
4. What have previous interns done that really made them stand out?
Asking this question not only reveals your enthusiasm for growth and success but also highlights your initiative by seeking guidance on how to stand out even before you begin.
It’s crucial to pay close attention to the response and take notes. This ensures not only replicating successful approaches but also discovering ways to surpass the achievements of previous interns.
The answer might provide valuable insights into how you can evolve from being just an intern to becoming an integral part of the team.
5. What types of projects will I be working on during my internship?
Quite a few interns tend to miss out on asking this question, only to be taken aback when they find themselves not working on the projects they anticipated and instead becoming the go-to person for making tea for a month.
When you ask this question, you can express your interest in specific projects and ensure alignment with the employer’s expectations.
Essentially, it helps you and the employer be on the same page. If the response leaves you with mixed signals, it might be wise to explore other potential work placements.
6. What are key qualities that you see in the most successful interns?
Getting a sneak peek into what it takes to climb the career ladder is always a smart move. It allows you to figure out if you possess the necessary qualities and gives you the chance to polish up on any areas before diving into your internship.
Asking this question also piques the interviewer’s interest, signaling your genuine desire to thrive within their company. It demonstrates that you see the opportunity as more than just a stint for work experience.
7. How will you evaluate my performance?
Letting them know you’re keen on receiving feedback reflects your enthusiasm for learning and highlights your dedication to both professional growth and personal development in the workplace.
This insight not only sets clear expectations for your objectives but also provides a benchmark for measuring your progress. It sends a strong message that you value your performance and are committed to surpassing any expectations.
8. How long have you been offering internship positions?
It’s crucial to assess whether the company has experience working with interns and has established processes to meet the needs of both the intern and the company. This encompasses training procedures, assigned tasks, and mentorship arrangements.
In the case of a relatively new internship position, you might find yourself in a situation where you fade into the background, struggling to find meaningful tasks. If this scenario arises, you might be better off considering an internship program at a more well-established and recognized company.
9. How much interaction will I have with other employees?
Typically, interns find themselves confined to their own departments with limited interaction with others. Asking this question helps you figure out if there’s a chance for you to explore different departments and gain a broader understanding of the organization.
For instance, at Vogue magazine, interns get hands-on experience across various teams. If the information isn’t volunteered, don’t hesitate to ask! Remember, if you don’t ask, you won’t know!
10. What are the next steps in the interview process?
If you’re curious about the hiring process and when you can anticipate a final answer, feel free to ask! It’s entirely reasonable to pose this question, and it also demonstrates your eagerness to secure the internship.
Asking this question will provide you with peace of mind. Instead of constantly checking your phone and refreshing your inbox every five minutes in hopeful anticipation of that golden email, you can relax.
The information you gather will also help you stay on top of the crucial steps in the interview process.
11. Can you tell me about the onboarding process?
Every company follows a unique process when bringing new employees on board. In your internship interviews, it’s valuable to inquire about this process, especially the training aspect.
This will help you discern which internship aligns better with your career goals. Some employers may ask you to complete paperwork or testing before your official start date. Knowing what to expect in advance allows you to prepare more effectively for your internship onboarding.
Given that many employers predefine the duration of internships, understanding the training requirements beforehand can be beneficial.
For example, you might need to familiarize yourself with specialty software to handle orders in a sales firm. A more extended training period could offer comprehensive preparation, while a shorter one might provide more time for hands-on professional development.
12. Can you describe the company’s culture?
The culture of a company encompasses its values, ethics, goals, and working environment. Every company you interview with will have its unique traits.
Gaining insight into the company culture and how well it aligns with your personality can significantly enhance your internship experience. Your interviewer’s response might unveil other job perks, such as paid meals and company outings.
13. What are the main day-to-day responsibilities involved in this internship?
Every internship comes with its distinct daily routine. Having a comprehensive understanding of your typical tasks will empower you to make an informed decision about accepting the internship offer.
Different organizations may vary widely, some offering substantial responsibilities, while others might have you handling phone calls. Being aware in advance of the specific work you’ll be involved in allows you to choose a position that aligns well with your skills and interests.
14. What are some essential qualities for successful interns?
Your personal traits play a crucial role in determining if an internship is the right fit for you. Asking this question signals to your interviewer that you’re keen on meeting their expectations.
The response you receive will also shed light on the standards they have for your performance and behavior. Regardless of whether you secure the position, the answer to this question can be valuable in preparing for future internship interviews.
15. What challenges do you find interns most frequently face in this role?
The job description may not always highlight the challenges that come with a position. By inquiring about the challenges, you make sure to get a more comprehensive understanding of what your upcoming role entails.
This question also conveys to your interviewer that you recognize your time at the company will involve diverse experiences, and you are ready to prepare for them.
16. What resources do you provide interns to help them succeed?
Understanding the resources the company offers is crucial for maximizing your time as an intern. It not only reflects the employer’s commitment to their interns but also equips you with the tools for success, setting you up well for the next steps in your career.
17. How do you evaluate performance for this position?
Similar to how employers track the progress of permanent employees, they also keep tabs on their interns to ensure they meet expectations. Asking this question signals to your interviewer that you are eager to succeed in the role and are receptive to feedback.
Understanding how and when the employer evaluates your performance provides you with clarity on the expectations for achieving success in the position.
18. Are there opportunities for full-time employment or other advancements?
The possibility of a job offer after your internship can greatly influence your choice between two internships. Bringing up this question during your interview conveys that you have a long-term perspective and are open to investing more time in the company beyond the internship requirements.
19. What is the next step in this process?
Demonstrating foresight is a great way to impress your interviewer. Asking this question signals your enthusiasm to start working. The information you gather can also help you plan any necessary follow-up actions.
For instance, if they mention a hiring timeline of a month, it’s advisable to wait more than a week before sending a follow-up email about the position. However, sending a thank-you note right away is always a good idea.
20. Do you have any additional questions about my background or qualifications?
Employers often anticipate and provide standard responses to commonly asked questions. However, this particular question has the potential to initiate a more candid and engaging conversation with your interviewer.
It allows you to explore aspects that may not be covered by typical queries, offering interviewers an opportunity to bridge any information gaps they might have about you. Posing this question reflects your confidence in being a strong match for the job.
21. Ask questions specific to the interviewer?
Inquiring about your interviewer’s personal experience at the organization is a great way to establish a connection and receive direct insights into the working environment.
It provides an opportunity for them to share a more in-depth perspective on the team you’ll be joining, allowing you to evaluate whether the position aligns well with your expectations and preferences.
22. How will you evaluate my performance?
You can also phrase this question as, “What does success look like in this role?” It’s natural to aim for excellence in every task, but it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your responsibilities.
Inquire about the specific tasks or skills that will be evaluated and find out who will be conducting the evaluations. For example, if you’re interning in the human resources department at an advertising agency and your task is updating the client database, it’s important not to spend your time on pitching campaign ideas to the art director.
Moreover, expressing your interest in receiving feedback not only signals your eagerness to learn but also underscores your commitment to professional growth and your openness to guidance.
23. How have you managed interns in the past?
Inquiring about the company’s past experiences with interns provides valuable insights into their expectations from you. Pay attention to mentions of established procedures and rules.
Find out what factors contributed to the success of previous interns and how you can make a meaningful contribution if selected for the internship.
These questions not only highlight your view of the internship as a platform for skill development but also demonstrate your interest in benefiting the company. While an internship is undoubtedly a chance for personal growth, it’s equally important to showcase the value you can bring to the company.
The responses you receive will help you discern whether the company sees the internship as an opportunity to support your skill development or merely as a means to handle routine tasks.
24. What will a typical workday be like?
Internships often come with the stereotype of being stuck doing monotonous and thankless tasks every day. It’s essential to confirm that the assignments you receive contribute to your professional skill development.
This question serves as a key to unveil the answer and also enlightens you about any specific scheduling expectations, like office hours and breaks, set by managers for the position.
Understanding early on whether overtime or late nights are anticipated can guide you in finding a work environment that aligns with your schedule and supports your professional growth.
25. With whom will I be working?
Different organizations handle internships in various ways – some assign interns to specific individuals or departments, while others group them together. In a pooled situation, interns might miss the chance to establish a strong relationship with a mentor and might only get a broad overview of the organization instead of delving deep into a specific function.
Conversely, intern groups might get the chance to work on more significant, high-profile projects compared to individual interns.
As an intern, you have the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the professional environment. As a follow-up question, consider asking, “What opportunities will I have to engage with and interact with people outside of my assigned department?”
26. What are your favorite parts about working here?
When you’re researching the company before the interview, you’ll likely explore its culture through websites and social media. However, these sources can only provide so much insight.
While many hiring managers may highlight their company culture — emphasizing values like diversity and commitment to employee well-being — posing this question essentially prompts the interviewer to pinpoint specific qualities and elaborate on them.
Hearing about the company’s mission and culture directly from a current employee sitting right in front of you gives you a much more genuine understanding of their sincerity.
27. What are some of the common challenges interns usually face in this role/company?
Companies might not automatically share this information with you, so it’s important to actively seek it. Perhaps some past interns faced difficulties in time management or struggled with effective communication with their managers.
Others might have underestimated (or overestimated) the workload. By posing this question, you can proactively get insights into potential challenges, allowing you to prepare and avoid unexpected surprises on the job.
28. Could you tell me more about the company’s…?
This is one of those questions you should ask in an internship interview to showcase your engagement and eagerness to learn more about the company. Consider asking about recent news related to the organization or seeking additional insights into the information available on the company’s website.
You can also express your interest by inquiring about how the organization makes contributions to its industry and community, and how, as an intern, you would play a role in supporting these initiatives.
29. How often do you hire interns for full-time jobs?
Certainly, you’re eager to know if the company views interns as potential employees, but it’s important to approach the question with tact. By framing it this way, you convey your interest in full-time work without creating the expectation of a job offer.
Even if a job offer doesn’t materialize, your internship experience can still serve as a valuable asset in securing a great job down the line.
30. Ask one question based on something your interviewer said in the interview?
This question stands out as a showstopper among others to ask in an internship interview. It demonstrates that you are attentive, engaged, and adept at thinking on your feet.
For instance: “Earlier, you mentioned that the company is in the initial phases of expanding its audience in the UK and Europe. Can you share more about the strategies in place for achieving that goal?
I have a strong interest in international business relations and would be thrilled to contribute to this project if the opportunity arises.”
31. What comes next?
Before you wrap up the interview, express gratitude, and shake hands with the interviewer, it’s crucial to find out about the next steps in the hiring process. This ensures you aren’t left waiting anxiously.
Besides gaining valuable information, asking this question indicates to the company that you are someone who follows through. Staying informed about the next steps in a process is a vital element for success.
Final Thoughts
A good practice for any interview is to ask questions that naturally contribute to the ongoing conversation. If the hiring manager already addressed one of your questions during the discussion, avoid asking it again at the end of the interview.
Repeating a question may give the impression of being clumsy, which could potentially impact your chances of securing the position you desire!
Now that you’re aware of the right questions to ask in an internship interview, it’s time to explore exciting opportunities.
Ready to take the next step?
Futuredecider offers numerous free resources to help you make it happen. We can assist you in presenting yourself as polished and professional, even if you don’t have extensive workforce experience just yet. Check out our other resources about internships.
Hey, I am Sachin Ramdurg. I run and manage futuredecider.com website that helps students, graduates, and professionals, to find and decide on their future career with ultimate future career advices and future career guides. I have an overall 12+ years of career guidance experience in multiple domains which has helped multiple students, graduates, and professionals to find the best career path for their future.