Working World

The interview has gone well and is just about over. You’ve successfully answered the questions put to you, and you’re beginning to breathe a sigh of relief. Getting this job would be great: more money, decent benefits and it’s full time, permanent!

So here it comes — the question you always dread: “Do you have any questions for me?” Of course you don’t. After all, he explained everything as you went along, and you did your research before you applied, right?

Slow down. Never say, “No.” This is your last chance to stand out. Always have at least two questions prepared to highlight what you can bring to your prospective employer. If nothing else, show you can think on your feet and have an interest in what goes on around you.

You might ask, “What is the most important attribute you are looking for in someone applying for this job? What are the career paths in this department? Could you describe a typical work day to me?” Every job will have its particular focus that you should think about ahead of time so that you can frame an intelligent question and follow up with a brief conversation.

Finally, yet importantly, ask, “What is the next step in the interview process?” Any prospective employer owes you the courtesy of a time frame for an answer and a clue about what steps will follow if you have succeeded so far.