Hint: the ‘right’ answer is NOT “Um, no , I really can’t think of anything.’ This is your chance to interact with the company rep in front of you and let him or her know that you are someone with better than average intelligence and a better than average drive to get ahead.
Don’t waste this opportunity asking what the vacation policy is when the paychecks are written. (Quite apart from the obvious fact that these two queries send the wrong message to the person in front of you, this information will become clear over time—assuming that you are invited to apply for the position.
Instead, ask questions that show imagination and creativity. For instance: “I know that your competitor Blah Blah Yah makes products that are very similar to the ones you produce. What one feature of these gives them a sales advantage?” Or: “As this company evolves over time, where do you see it heading in the future?” Or: “You’ve told me about the position and its responsibilities, but is there anything you HAVEN’T told me about your department, division or group that I, as a job seeker should know?”
Each of the questions you ask should demonstrate an interest not only in the position that being offered but also the fact that you are smart, ambitious and driven, and more importantly that you are motivated to remain with the company for some time.
It goes without saying that before you set foot in the interview that you should learn all you can about the company. Visit its web site to familiarize yourself with the products it makes or the services it provides. Review its marketing literature—including annual reports--to gain a good understanding of how it is organized. In so doing, you will be perceived as a serious candidate
Another excellent question you can ask that will give you some insight into what it’s like to work for that firm is “Can you describe a typical day for me?” In all likelihood, you’ll learn more about the position than what is in the job description.
Finally you might ask your interviewer what he/she likes most about the company. (If he/she draws a blank, you might want to re-examine your interest in the firm!) Employees who genuinely like their jobs will be eager to tout its advantages. This will furnish an ideal opportunity for your interviewer to ‘sell’ you on the company and it, too, should provide information that you did not have prior to your interview.
Don’t forget to express your enthusiasm for the position for which you’ve applied--even though it might not be # 1 on your list! If you seem indifferent or apathetic you’ll never get the job offer in the first place! And always, always, always take the time to write a handwritten note of appreciation.
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