Posing the Right Question to Interviewers

If you’re attending an interview, you’re sure to have done your bit of homework and research about the organization where you’re hoping to be hired. You’re also well prepared with what answers you will give and how you will present yourself. But have you thought about what questions you will ask the interviewer? Yes, you also have to ask some questions. What happens when you don’t ask questions? Interviewers feel that you’re not that interested or committed or maybe you’re plain lazy.

Now, you don’t want that to happen right? So whether your interviewer asks you if you have any questions, or not, make sure you put in a few. What kind of questions can you ask the interviewer? You’ve reached the right place if you’ve been wondering about that. Read on to understand what kind of questions you can pose to the interviewers which will make a huge difference in the impact you leave during the interview.

Don’t ask the obvious – It’s a waste of time. If you already know the answer and you’re simply asking the question to make it look like you’re asking something relevant, don’t bother. Interviewers get annoyed with obvious questions, the answers to which can easily be accessed at the company website.

• Prepare ahead – Spontaneous is fine. But it also pays to be prepared ahead of the interview even with regards to the questions you will ask. In fact, sit down and make a list of things that you really need to know about the company and its policies.
• Company policies – This is something that only someone working in the company can tell you and how it affects one on a practical basis. So, go ahead and ask about your concerns and whether employees are expected to work overtime etc.
• Pick up where they leave off – If an interviewer has answered a question which triggers another query in your mind, pursue it. The interviewer will know that you’re really keen and enthusiastic and it’s a good way to involve them and show them your level of interest as well.
• Do your homework well – It won’t pay if you make a faux pas when you’re asking interviewers a question. Make sure that you have all the facts and that your ambitions and goals are streamlined with the organization’s requirements and expectations.

While each organization is different and will have different expectations, there is a level of commonality which can be extended to most interviews. Here are a few questions that you can put across in most situations.

How long have you been trying to fill this position?

• What kind of training is provided to new recruits?
• What are the responsibilities or duties that are associated with this role?
• What kind of growth potential is present for someone in this position?

Most of these questions could fit well in any interview scenario but you could customize it to suit what you need to ask. An important point to remember when asking a question from interviewers; be polite and assertive always.