We all know that asking questions at the end of every interview is crucial, but many of us struggle to figure out what questions we should ask. We often fret over the types of questions, when to ask, how many to ask, etc. Mastering this skill is extremely important for impressing your future employers and is something everybody in the workforce needs to learn. Here are some tips for asking excellent questions during an interview to increase your chances of being hired.
Avoid Basic Questions
Do not ask close-ended questions, such as questions where the only answers are either ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ These questions do not create any discussion between you and the interviewer, which does not help create a memorable candidate in the interviewers’ eyes. If a question can be answered with a simple Google search, do not ask since it gives the impression that you did not do your research. We want to give questions that open up a conversation where you can learn more about the company and where you can demonstrate your skills and interests.
Ask Questions Mid-Interview
Some people think they are only allowed to ask questions at the end of an interview, but that is not the case. If the interviewer is discussing a topic that relates to a question you have, feel free to ask them then. For example, if the interviewer is discussing vacation days and you have questions about that topic, feel free to ask them now. However, if the interviewer is explaining your expected day-to-day responsibilities, do not interrupt them by asking about wages since that will be seen as rude and come off as if you were not listening to them. An interview is not just a set of questions and answers but is a conversation, so treat it like one!
No Overly-Complex Questions
We do not want to ask basic questions, but we also do not want to ask questions that require a minute’s explanation and build-up. An interviewer should not have to hear your essay to answer one question; they should instantly be able to know what the question is asking, and if they have to think about it, then it is a bad question. Also, avoid a question that requires multiple different answers or asks multiple different questions all at once. We want our questions to be thought-provoking, not confusing.
Know Your Audience
If you notice your interview has passed the scheduled time or you see that the interviewer is visibly rushing, then you should shorten the number of questions you will ask. We want to respect their time and can always send a follow-up email asking more questions if necessary. You should also only ask questions that your interviewer would reasonably have the answer to. If your interviewer is primarily focused on marketing, then they may not have the answer to more difficult HR or finance questions. Remember, there is no single golden ticket to nailing any interview. Just be sure to prepare beforehand, loosen up a little, and have some fun.
If you want in-depth and personal interviewing coaching, then connect with us at Wrights Resumes and Connections to learn more today!
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