4 Administrative Interview Questions Job Seekers Need To Ask

From conducting company research to knowing your resume, there is a lot to cover when preparing for an administrative interview! However, there is one area that executive and administrative assistants often overlook: preparing their own list of administrative interview questions to ask.

“When asked whether you have any questions at the end of an interview, it can be tempting to breathe a sigh of relief that the meeting is over,” says Lindsay Hildebrandt, a Senior Associate within The Execu|Search Group’s Office Support division. “However, this is your final opportunity to show the hiring manager why you are the best fit for the role. Rather than defaulting to generic questions, you should be asking questions that will elicit a response that will allow you to further sell your background.”

To help you leave a lasting impression on a prospective employer, here are four administrative interview questions that Lindsay advises you ask:

What systems or software does the firm utilize?

With the role of an admin professional constantly evolving, your tech skills can give you an edge on your competition! “An easy way to highlight your advanced admin skills is to ask about the specific systems and software you would be utilizing in the role,” advises Lindsay. “You can pivot off of their response to either explain how you have experience with that particular technology or transferable skills that will enable you to quickly get up to speed.”

Has there ever been a situation in which the executive needed support at the last minute?

Behind every successful executive is an exceptional assistant. Acting as gatekeepers and problem solvers, they serve as an extension of the person they support. As a result, this is a great question to ask on your next interview. Not only can it give you a little insight into the work environment, but it can provide you with an opening to respond with an example of a time where you were able to help an executive get through an urgent situation.

What do you expect me to accomplish in the next 30-90 days?

Asking this question can help prove that you are interested in this specific role, rather than any opportunity that comes along. “This is another great opportunity to present yourself as the right fit for the role,” says Lindsay. “Asking this question shows that you are committed to learning more about the role as well as what will be expected of you in your first few months.” An alternative way to ask this question is, “What are the most pressing projects you’d like me to accomplish in my first few months?”

I see you have been with the firm for x years. Why do you like it/why did you join/what is your favorite part of the job?

This further demonstrates the fact that you put effort into preparing for this specific administrative interview. “Asking one of these administrative interview questions shows that you did some homework on your interviewer,” says Lindsay. “Demonstrating an interest in their career as well as their experience with the company can help set you apart from your competition.”