Job interviews can be intimidating, especially when you’re searching for an internship and find yourself seated in front of a prospective employer for the first time. How you answer interview questions is crucial in determining whether or not you’re right for the job. However, in addition to answering questions, being prepared with the right questions to ask your interviewer can help you make a positive impression and increase your likelihood of landing the job. Spend ample time preparing for an internship interview by reviewing common interview questions and ensuring you are presenting yourself in a professional manner.

What Do You Expect From Your Interns?

As a prospective employee at this firm, you need to know what is expected of interns to ensure that the role is the right fit for you and your skills. Ask employers about job expectations and take careful notes on a professional steno pad to evaluate later. Applicants who prepare interview questions can potentially show that they are eager and interested in the job opportunity while also impressing the interview panel with their genuine interest in the tasks required and expected.

What Is a Typical Workday Like?

Show that you are curious about the tasks and responsibilities that are typical during a normal workday. After the interviewer details common tasks, inquire further about the people you would be working with, the type of client interaction you would have on the job and the opportunities available to work with different teams. If it’s at all overwhelming to learn about the potential demands of the job, make sure not to let anxiety get the best of you. Take deep breaths while maintaining a smile and positive body language. Prepare for the question and answer portion of your interview by hosting a mock interview with a trusted friend or mentor. Keep an ink pen on hand to jot down the responses so you can go over them later.

What Should I Know About Your Company?

It is in your best interest to research the company prior to your internship interview to help you prepare interview questions. Scour the company website on your tablet, Chromebook or desktop computer for a few days before your scheduled meeting to uncover the products and services the company provides. Research the company structure, hierarchy and leadership team. Search for information regarding the company's community efforts and company culture to craft interview questions to ask during the job interview. After responding to questions about your qualifications, you can offer what you know about the business. Ask the interviewer to elaborate on any areas you want to more about and whether or not they feel as though there is anything additional you should know about the company. This question provides you with information that you may not be able to find online or from fellow interns who have been employed by the firm.

How Often Do You Hire Interns for Full-Time Employment?

Toward the end of the internship interview, inquire about full-time job opportunities for interns to gauge whether or not the company is seeking long-term employees. Ask this question to show that you are interested in more than just a temporary job assignment. Potential employers are putting time and effort into training you during your internship. Express your desire to establish a long-term commitment that would benefit both you and the company. Don’t forget to treat this interview as a professional job opportunity by dressing for the part. Pay close attention to your hygiene, be mindful of any accessories or jewelry that can be a distraction, and stock up on emergency supplies such as stain removers and band-aids to handle those unexpected mishaps that can occur on your way to the job interview.

Although you can expect to be asked interview questions, take your professionalism to the next level by preparing job interview questions to ask the hiring manager. The information you obtain can help you make an informed decision about whether or not this internship opportunity is the best fit for you.