Purpose

For the organization:

• Allows the organization to get a more in-depth assessment of candidate.
• Pares down the larger pool of candidates.
• Assesses good match with goals, career opportunities and culture.
• Often, it is the last step before the offer.

For the candidate:

• Allows the candidate to see the organization and some personnel first-hand to make informed decisions before an offer is accepted.
• To learn more about the position, longer-term career opportunities and the organization.
• To meet the organization’s employees and view the culture first-hand.
• To learn about the local community.

Arranging the trip

• Know your main contact.
• Clarify who makes travel and lodging arrangements, and discuss payment.
• Confirm all arrangements and ask for an itinerary for your interview day.
• Prepare for the visit by learning as much about the organization, industry, field trends and position before the interview.
  
  Resources may include:
• • Notes taken after the first interview
  • Web sites and position descriptions
  • Annual reports
  • Promotional material on the company
  • Industry and business publications
  • Employees of the organization including alumni of St. Norbert College

Questions you may want to ask

General topics

• What future changes do you envision?
• What plans does your company have for staying competitive in your industry?
• What are some of the challenges currently facing this industry?

Career motivation

• Why did you decide to work here?
• What do you like most (or least) about your job?
• What has been your career path?
• What is most rewarding about working with this organization?

Anticipated job responsibilities

• What will be the expectations for the person hired in this position?
• Where does this position fit within the company mission and structure?
• What opportunities for growth in responsibility and advancement exist for this position?
• Please share a typical day on the job.

Work environment

• How would you describe your corporate culture?
• What differentiates this company from its competitors?
• What is the organization’s philosophy toward its employees?
• What is the relationship of this organization to the local community?

Employment trends

• What significant changes have occurred during the past few years?
• What are the short and long-term strategic directions for the company?
• What is the greatest challenge facing the company/industry for next year?

Measures of work performance

• Please describe your most successful employee.
• How will I be evaluated in this job?
• How do employees keep pace with new technology and information?