Whether you like to believe it or not, every aspect of an interview is about competing with other candidates. As mentioned in our previous blogs, having a competitive advantage and setting yourself apart is critical for the successful outcome of an interview.
Too often hiring managers are disappointed with, and even disqualify candidates who, when given the opportunity do not ask any questions during the interview or at the conclusion of the interview.
When a candidate does not ask questions, he is giving the following impression:
- Didn’t care enough to think about what questions to ask
- Was unprepared and showed up without a list of questions
- Has no interest in the company or job; just going through motions; no motivation
- Rests on his laurels, thinking his experience is enough to impress and questions are unnecessary
- Isn’t bright enough to ask any thoughtful questions
- Just wants to be done with the interview
On the other hand, if you are prepared and have questions to ask, you will come across as someone who is genuinely interested in the position and company as you took the time to prepare tailored questions.
It’s very important that you conduct a thorough research on the company and the hiring manager prior to the interview. The more you know, the better you can prepare your questions. For example, instead of asking a generic question such as “What are the company’s plans for the next 5 years?” you can customize the question to, “In the firm’s 10K report, I learned that company has plans to expand internationally. Can you please tell me where those offices will be located and will there be opportunities for current employees to relocate?”
In our busy and fast-paced world, sometimes candidates don’t have ample time to research and prepare very meaningful and customized questions. If you are stuck, at least try some of the sample questions offered below. CAVEAT: Always be aware of your audience. When a manager asks you if you have any questions, respond in the positive but also ask them how much time they have. That way, you know if you can ask only 5 questions or 10. Moreover, pay attention to their body language. If you see that they are checking their watch or hurrying you to answer the question perhaps they don’t really have the time and are just being polite. You need to gauge as you go.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS
About Job
- What does a typical day on the job look like for this position?
- Will I be trained or learn on the job?
- What are the 3 most important projects/tasks that I will need to accomplish in the first month? 90 days?
- Will I receive a quarterly or annual performance review? OR
- How does the company define and measure success for this position?
- What are the key traits needed to be successful in this position?
- If anyone has failed in this position, why have they failed?
- Who does this position report to in the company?
- How do you see this position evolving in the next 2-4 years?
About Hiring Manager
- What do you enjoy the most about your job?
- What do you like least and most about the company culture?
- If you could improve one thing about the company, what would it be?
About the Company
- Can you describe the company culture?
- Can you tell me a little bit about the team I will be working with?
- What is the average employee tenure here?
- What new skills can I hope to learn at this company?
Conclusion
- Do you have any hesitations about my qualifications? OR
- What concerns/reservations do you have about me for this position?
- What are the next steps?
- When can I expect to hear back?
- Who should I contact in the event that I don’t hear back?
