Asking Questions
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At most interviews, you will be invited to ask questions of your interviewer. This is an extremely important part of the interview process and it requires advance preparation. A job interview is not only an opportunity for the employer to question applicants, but an opportunity for the applicants to learn more about the employer.

Q1. Why do interviewers invite questions from the job applicant?

A. There are two basic reasons. First, there is courtesy. You have been asked questions so you should have the reciprocal opportunity to ask questions of your own. Second, your questions are a means of evaluating you as a job candidate.

Q2. How important are my questions at a job interview?

A. Your questions are almost always important. In fact, for many interviewers your questions are at least as important as your answers.

Q3. Are there any guidelines on or rules about asking a question?

A. Yes! You should really care about the subject. If you don't care, don't ask. Hint: Your question should indicate that you have read and thought about the subject. For example "I read in Business Week that ... I wonder if that factor is going to impact on XYZ Corp." The question doesn't raise barriers to getting a job offer. For example, asking "Would I really have to work weekends?" implies that you are not available for weekend assignments. That could be a barrier to getting hired.

Q4. What could I ask about?

A. Good categories are: the job, the company, the industry/profession, external events which might effect the industry, company, or job.

Q5. About how many questions should I prepare?

A. Prepare five good questions, understanding that you may not have time to ask all of them.

Q6. Are there any no-no's to be aware of?

A. Yes. Avoid initiating questions about compensation (pay, vacations, etc.) or reimbursements for graduate study. Also, don't ask questions about only one topic. People who ask about only one topic are often perceived as "Johnny-One-Note." One dimensional people are not top job prospects.

Q7. Is it acceptable to ask a question to clarify something the interviewer said?

A. Yes, but this is not a substitute for other questions. Also, make sure you are listening. Asking someone to clarify a specific point makes sense. Asking someone re-explain an entire subject gives the impression that you have problems listening or comprehending.

Hint: You can preface a clarifying question by saying: "You mentioned that at ABC Company... Can you tell me how that works out in practice?"