At some point, usually at the conclusion of the interview, you may be asked, "Do you have any questions?" A common answer to this question is, "No, I think you've covered everything very well." This is the wrong answer! You have passed up your opportunity to ask some critical questions that may make a difference as to whether you want to work for this company.
Here are some rules and basic questions to consider asking when asked if you have questions:
Rule #1 - Ask questions. This is a critical time for you to find out insider information about the company or position.
Rule #2 - Formulate your questions based on information you hear during the interview. Paying attention to clues and listening are the keys to asking intelligent questions.
Rule #3 ? Bring a list of potential questions to ask, at least four or five, as a back up.
Q#1 - You've been discussing your system, could you tell me what has been tried in the past to deal with the problem? (Listen carefully to the answer given as this may be your chance to inform the interviewer of our past experience with the same type of problem.)
Q#2 - There are a lot of companies laying off right now. How has this company been able to maintain the workforce and continue to hire new employees? (You've done your research and know some of the reasons, but are interested in the insider point of view.)
Q#3 - Could you tell me about the way the job has been performed in the past? And, what improvements you'd like to see happen? (This is an opportunity to convince the interviewer that you have what he/she is looking for by giving a specific, similar past experience story.)
Q#4 ? How would you describe the culture or spirit in this company? (One of the interviewer's concerns is whether you will fit into the company culture. You need more information to see if this would be a good environment and fit for you.)
Q#5 ? What are the challenges I would face in this position over the next three months? (Your first 90 days on the job is a critical time for any new hire. You need to know what will be expected of you as you start your learning curve.)
Q#6 ? When I responded to your question regarding my past experience handling stress, you commented that you have your share of that here. Could you tell me more about the stress level here? (Clues are given and problems alluded to during the interview ? listen carefully and turn up your intuitive. Ask questions if you need clarification.
Q#7 ? May I ask what your background with the company is? (There's a big difference between showing an interest in someone and grilling them. Interviewers don't like being cross-examined. Ask friendly questions and be alert to clues regarding this person's satisfaction with the company.)
Q#8 ? How would you describe your management style and interaction with your staff? (You may need to read between the lines here. Make sure this manager's communication and style fit with your ideas and values.)
Q#9 ? Ideally, what qualities will it take to get this job done? (This is a chance for you to sell yourself, and tell once more why you are such an excellent fit for the position ? the added-value you would bring to the company.)
Q#10 ?I am very interested in pursuing this job further. What is the next step in the hiring process? (It is best to find out what the hiring plan is so that you will know the sense of urgency and how to follow up.)
The types of questions you ask will be determined by the conversation and types of questions asked of you during the interview. Pay attention to the interviewer's body language to determine how many questions to ask ? relaxed and willing to talk, or in a hurry and running late? Lastly, make sure your questions are succinct and to the point, demonstrating your knowledge and interest.
Copyright (c) 2007 Carole Martin, The Interview Coach
The best way is to handle a panel of interviewers is to take them on one at a time. The board or panel is not one entity, but several individuals coming together with the common goal of hiring the best candidate for the job. At the same time, each person has his own agenda or department's interest at heart. For example, the HR manager will be checking to make sure you are a good fit with the culture and people working at this company. The hiring manager will want to know about your technical skills or business know-how. And the person from accounting will want to know if you are savvy enough to operate a business budget.
Board or panel interviews are usually rather formal and organized, using a standard set of questions for all applicants. This type of interview is typically used in academia, government or for high-level executives but can be used for any other type of position in any company.
Another multiple-type interview is the team or "good cop/bad cop" interview. The team is usually made up of two interviewers, one who asks the questions and one who takes notes. The two typically trade roles, which can be confusing if they have different styles. In fact, one person may be kind and gentle and the other more harsh or pushy. Just remember, these inquisitors are working together toward the same end. Treat them equally, not favoring one over the other.
Regardless of the type of interview, the best advice is to prepare and practice beforehand. When you have your script written and rehearsed your answers, you will feel prepared and more confident no matter how many people you have to face.
A good tip is to try to shake hands with each member of the panel before and/or after the interview if at all logistically possible.
Lastly, remember to make sure you get each person's business card, hopefully at the beginning of the interview, so you can address each person by name. And, when you write your follow-up/thank you note/email you can address each person correctly. When responding to an individual, try to remember what he or she was particularly interested in when they asked questions or received your answer.
Remember each person has an agenda - it is up to you to zero in on that interest and make the most of it.
Carole Martin has sinced written about articles on various topics from Interview Questions, Interview Questions and Marketing and Communications. Carole Martin is a celebrated author, trainer, and mentor. Carole can give you interviewing tips like no one else can. Get a copy of her FREE 9-part "Interview Success Tips" report by visiting Carole on the web at. Carole Martin's top article generates over 165000 views. to your Favourites.