Asking the “Right Questions” can get you hired.

Very frequently job-seekers are advised to ask “Right Questions” to the employer at the end of their interview. If you have ever wondered what exactly constitutes “Right Question” read ahead:

While compensation, work-hours and schedule flexibility are some natural enquiries you may have, they are generally better to ask once you have a job offer in hand. In your first interview focus on building the right impression and emphasize on what you bring to the table.

1.    "If I were to start tomorrow, what would be the top priority on my to-do list?"

This question is a “buy one get one free” in the line-up for benefits. Not only will the answer give you a fair idea of the position and job profile, it also demonstrates your interest in getting started immediately. 

 

The added bonus lies in the Jedi mind trick: You already have your interviewer picturing you as the position holder.

2.    "What attributes does someone need to have in order to be really successful in this position?"

The answer to this will be very telling. "Creative" and "intuitive" can be translated to mean you will be on your own, while "patient" and "collaborative" could mean the opposite.

While the answer to this question will allow you to assess whether you'll be a good fit, it will also get your interviewer to look past the resume and see you as an individual.

3.    "What improvements or changes do you hope the new candidate will bring to this position?"

This answer can shed light on what might have made the last person lose or leave the job, as well as tip you off on the path to success. Asking this shows an employer you are eager to be the best candidate to ever fill this position.

4.    "I know this organization prides itself on X and Y, so what would you say is the most important facet of your culture?"

This question is sure to impress. It shows you researched the company, and gives you a chance to gain insight into what values the company holds highest.

5.    "I appreciate your time today. What’s our next step?"

First, reiterate that you’re interested in the position (assuming you still are, of course!), and ask the following non-presumptuous questions about what’s next in the hiring process.

Finally, don’t bombard the interviewer with a laundry list of questions. If the interviewer seems engaged in the conversation and encourages you to keep asking, great. But if you see him / her looking at the watch, time to wrap it up! It’s best to pick a handful of questions that are most important to you and leave on a positive note.