The Future of Work: Climate Change
He went into the interview without any pre-determined questions for the interviewer. The following scenario unfolded:
The interview lasted about an hour. Towards the end of the interview, the interviewer looked at the candidate and asked, “Do you have any questions you would like to ask us?”
The interviewee paused for a moment before relying, “No, I think you have done a pretty good job explaining the position and the company.”
Once the interview was formally completed, the interviewee was escorted to the lobby. He thought he did quite well. She answered questions smoothly and intelligently, even the tricky ones.
Once he left the premises, the interviewers took a moment to compare their impressions.
“What happened at the end there? Is he low-energy? Was he serious about not having any questions, or did he decide he wasn’t a fit? Personally, I would have had about one hundred questions. Too bad, he seemed like a very serious candidate through 95 percent of our interview.”
OUCH.
If you are serious about a job offer, you must show your preparation and excellence throughout the entire interview. Never squander the opportunity to ask insightful questions of the interviewer.
Probing Questions for the Interviewer
Can you share with me the greatest challenges I could face in this position
This question shows you know this is a position that is not all rainbows and unicorns. You want to know exactly what you are up against, and preparation for the most difficult aspect of the potential job is something you want to think about.
What are the success objectives for this position
This question shows you are not afraid to have your performance scrutinized. It also shows that you understand objectives: Quantifiable and measurable goals for which you will be held accountable. The ability to welcome and embrace accountability is often sweet music to an employer’s ears.
How long was the tenure of the person who held this role previously
This question lets interviewers know that you also need to be aware of a company’s weaknesses as well as their strengths. If the position you are interviewing for has had high turnover, you may have to prepare for a difficult manager, unrealistic expectations, or a host of other potential road blocks.
How would you describe my manager’s style
A manager has a great deal of influence over each and every workday. Even though you may receive a candy-coated answer, there might be a sliver of truth revealed, which allows you to weigh an additional variable.
In the past, why did the person who succeeded most in this position do so well
You are looking to match or beat the person who was the best at this job before you arrived. This shows initiative and high expectations of yourself.
How can I help clarify or address any reservations you may have about me
This question signals the ability to self-assess and an openness to constructive criticism. It also provides you a last chance to clarify and promote your abilities.
What is your time line for getting back to candidates about the next steps
This is a great way to wrap up your questions for the interviewer. This puts your mind at ease about timeline while subtly suggesting to the interviewers that you are likely a busy person and a planner.
I Am Serious and I Am Interested
The purpose of asking questions to the interviewer exhibits that you are very serious and interested in the position. It lets the interviewers know you are a worthy employee who requires additional information. By doing so, you let them know they may not be the only ones who have a choice to make in the near future.
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