If you’re looking for a job in Connecticut, you’re used to answering questions.
Lots and lots of questions.
To put your best foot forward in an interview, though, you should also get used to asking questions.
The right questions, at the right time and in the right manner.
Believe it or not, interviewers actually want you to ask questions. In addition to helping them provide more complete information, your questions give potential employers insights about your preparedness, personality and level of interest in their available positions.
Take advantage of this opportunity to shine by following these tips:
- Prioritize your questions. You may have time to ask 10 or only two, so be sure you plan which questions to ask first.
- Prepare to be judged. Just as the interviewer will evaluate your responses, he will also evaluate the quality of the questions you ask. Make sure they’re relevant, intelligent and haven’t already been answered on the company’s website or during the interview.
- Show you’ve done your homework. Include appropriate terminology and information from your employer and/or industry research in your questions.
Customize this sample list of potential interview questions from A.R. Mazzotta to showcase your knowledge, position yourself as a leader, demonstrate your interest in the job – and learn critical information to help you make an informed decision:
- Why is this position available? This seemingly innocuous question can provide valuable information about the company’s culture and performance. The position may be vacant because it’s new, because someone was promoted from within (potentially good signs) or because the company is plagued by high turnover.
- How would you describe the ideal candidate? This question is a form of transference, encouraging the hiring manager to imagine you actually performing the job as he is describing it. Listen closely to the skills and characteristics he mentions and point out those that you possess, citing examples.
- How would you describe the company’s culture? Your success in a position isn’t only about performing job duties; it’s also about how well you fit into the environment. Your interviewer is certainly sizing you up for a cultural fit. You should be doing the same of your potential employer. When evaluating the interviewer’s response, consider whether or not the company’s culture is one that will align with your personal values and will likely support your success.
- What are the next steps in this process? Hiring organizations vary greatly in their selection processes. Some have multiple interviews; some require extensive skills and behavioral testing; still others conduct only one or two interviews before making an offer. This question will help you set expectations and remove post-interview anxiety by helping you understand: timelines for making a decision; whether or not additional testing/screening will be required; when the new hire will be brought on board; whom you may hear from and when; when and how you should follow-up, should you not hear from anyone.
As you ask questions, feel free to jot down a few brief notes; however, you should not let note-taking distract from the conversation. Before you leave, be sure to thank the interviewer for his time and let him know that you’re sincerely interested in the job.
A.R. Mazzotta – Committed to Your Job Search Success
As a leading Connecticut employment and recruiting agency, A.R. Mazzotta is committed to the success of your job search. With offices throughout the state, and a great team of experienced recruiting and staffing specialists, we have the resources and experience to match you with the ideal temporary, temp-to-hire or direct hire opportunity. Contact us today or Search Jobs online.