by K Ivey

Created on: January 22, 2009

When you get a call for a job interview excitement and panic battle for your attention. Your focus is on making sure you are ready to answer all the questions the employer is sure to ask and present yourself in the best possible light. This is as it should be. However, there are several things a job seeker should ask the interviewer in order to interview effectively.

When do you plan to make a hiring decision?

While this question can be phrased in many ways, it needs to fit somehow into the conversation. The employer is very unlikely to follow up with each interviewed candidate and you will have no way to know if you are still being considered unless you have some idea when they plan to make a decision.

What specific qualities/skills will your ideal candidate possess?

While the employer is evaluating you for a position, you are also considering what you know about the organization and the available opportunity. This question helps you determine whether you possess the attributes that will allow you to be successful in the role. No one wants to take on a job role that is a bad fit or where they will be unable to succeed. Asking this question also gives you a glimpse into some of the talents/traits the manager finds important.

For some positions, other questions may be appropriate - see below.

Was the last employee in this position successful? Can you briefly share why or why not?

In a typical day, how much time will I spend (on the phones, on the sales floor, in the shop, etc.)?

If interviewing with the person who will be your direct supervisor:

Can you tell me a little about your management style?

Some questions not to ask:

What does your company do?

You should always do your research before interviewing. The hiring manager has limited time and does not want to spend it explaining their business repeatedly to each candidate. You can differentiate yourself by being informed.

What not to ask in an initial interview:

How many sick days do I get? How much does it pay?

These questions early in the interview process may indicate a lack of commitment and tendency to miss work. It is absolutely appropriate to ask aout these things but only after it is apparent that the position may otherwise be a good fit. As you do research about the company, read their careers section. You will get a pretty clear idea of benefits there. Also look at various job sites for their postings. Some of these will probably have a salary listed. This allows you to know about what they pay without bringing it up before it is appropriate.

Interviewing should be a give and take discussion between a hiring manager and a candidate. The interview process is designed to determine whether the applicant and the opportunity are a good fit. It is much less nerve wracking to approach the interview in this manner instead of as a pass or fail test for the applicant.

Stay confident and keep smiling!

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