One study showed that 82% of employers feel it’s very important for a candidate to ask questions at the interview. Easier said than done! What do you ask?

Few things in life can be as stressful as interviewing for a job you really want. Walking into one of these interviews can be like walking into the unknown. You don’t know what to expect, who will interview you, what they’ll ask. Mostly, you’re afraid of messing up, of presenting the wrong impression. At worst, you’re afraid of looking stupid, or totally inadequate for the job.

You’re afraid of being rejected. So in the midst of all of this, when you’re so focused on giving the right answers, it’s hard to think of anything to say when, at the end of the interview, the hiring manager says, “So – do you have any questions for me?” So here are a few you could use. Write them down in a little notebook, and if necessary, refer to them during the interview. You won’t look foolish – you’ll look prepared.

1. Can you tell me more about what duties this position would involve? Presumably, you have a fair idea from the job posting, but it’s nice to get more detail.

2. Will there be a training period? If the answer is yes, this can take a load off your mind, knowing you won’t have to walk in and hit the ground running, so to speak. Also, if you’re applying for a shift job, usually the training is done during the day, sometimes at a different location, so this is also good to know.

3. How many people work here?

4. What do you like about the corporate culture here?

5. How long has this company been in business?

6. So do you make/sell any products besides _____? People are usually happy to give you a little more information about one of their areas of expertise – their workplace. Of course, you don’t want to overdo the questions – a few will do. You want to appear interested, but not clueless, nosy or a motormouth.

7. When do you think you’ll be making a decision? This is an important question for your mental health, since there’s something very comforting about having some idea when the misery of waiting will be over!

8. Would it be okay if I checked back with you next week? These last two questions sound best if said in a friendly, polite way, as opposed to a pushy or desperate way.

Having a few appropriate questions to ask the interviewer is a good idea, because it helps you avoid the awkwardness of saying, “Ummmm…no, I can’t think of anything to ask.” Having a few well-selected questions looks so much more professional, and helps you leave on a more relaxed note.

Final note: Don’t ask about money, or say, “So what happens next fall when I want to attend my cousin’s wedding in New Zealand?” The money question can be addressed if and when they offer you the job. You might want to wait till you’ve worked there a few months before asking about the wedding!

So remember:

1. Prepare a few appropriate questions.

2. Write them down for reference in case your mind goes blank. (A good possibility!)

3. Ask them in a pleasant, relaxed manner. (Fake this if you have to.)

The more prepared you are for your interview, the more confident you will feel, and the better you will present yourself.

Lorraine E. Wright is the owner of 21st Century Resumes, a company that designs technology-friendly, attention-grabbing resumes and cover letters. We customize them uniquely for each job seeker, so they stand out in today’s crowded and competitive job market. To learn more, go to http://21stcenturyresumes.ca

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