How to Answer: Do You Have Any Questions For Me?
You're almost done...your sweaty palms can see the light at the end of the nerve-racking interview tunnel. And then you hear "Do you have any questions for me". What do you do?
Do you:
Simply say "no, I think I have all the information I need" in an effort to end the interview as fast as possible?
Just ask the standard "when are you looking to make a decision?".
Take the time to ask some strategic and thoughtful questions that demonstrate a desire to better understand the role, team, and organization.
Asking key questions at the end of your interview gives you an edge!
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I'm known for asking thought-provoking and insightful questions at the end of an interview. So much so that interviewers often applaud them, and it was noted as something that gave me an edge when down to the final two candidates.
And when I recruit, candidates who ask well prepared questions often ended up near the top of my list.
But what do you ask?
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Ask Questions About: Their experience
Tell me about your favorite memory/experience in your time with <organization>.
What do you wish someone had told you about <organization> when you were interviewed?
What do you find tricky about working with <organization>?
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Ask Questions About:
The Culture
Describe your perception of <organization>'s culture in three words.
What are some of the biggest challenges facing the organization right now, and how are they being tackled?
How do you feel <organization> approaches the challenge of Work/Life balance?
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Ask Questions About:
The Role
What does a day-in-the-life of this role look like?
Can you tell me more about the history of this role?
Once the successful candidate is up to speed, what do you expect will be their biggest challenge in this role?
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Ask Questions About:
The Team
Tell me about the communication styles of the team members.
What leadership style does the team best respond to? (Manager roles)
How long have the team members been with <organization>? Is there a focus on development and promoting from within?
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Ask Questions About:
Next Steps
What timeline are you working with for the hiring of this position?
Is there anything I can expand on to demonstrate my excitement for this role?
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What you SHOULDN'T ask:
What will my salary/wage be?
There's a time and place for 'talking money'. If they haven't brought it up yet, just leave this topic until job offer stage.
When can I start taking vacation?
Asking about the organizations general 'Total Compensation Package' (HR speak for all the other 'perks' in addition to salary) can be ok. Or noting upcoming vacation you've already booked and need flexibility for. But asking specifically about taking vacation before you've been offered the role can be tricky.
Questions that demonstrate your lack of research on the organization (What is it that you do here?).
Do your research first. You should already know this, and have demonstrated it in your interview responses.
Questions about promotions or other role options.
Ask about how the organization approaches developing their employees. Don't specifically ask about when you can look at being promoted.
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Preparing your interview questions ahead of time is key.
As part of my interview coaching sessions, we will review what questions you want to ask, how to approach second interview questions, and how to phrase them all. Let's work together to elevate this part of your interview, so that you can