Dear Career Advisor:

I found your suggestions for answering tough interview questions very useful. I too have an interview-related question. At the end of the interview, one may be asked, ‘Do you have any questions?’ Can you give me some examples of questions that are appropriate to ask during an interview?

Yours truly,

Albert W

Dear Albert:

I am happy you have found the suggestions useful.

Let’s establish a few guidelines for the questions to ask your interviewer.

• Before the interview, prepare two or three questions, the responses to which you could not otherwise determine from your research.

• The questions you ask should indicate that you are really interested in the position and you are highly motivated to do the job well.

• You do not necessarily have to wait until the end of the interview to ask your question(s); however, you should be guided by the direction the interviewer is taking. A good interview is a two-way flow of information.

Questions to ask your interviewer

1. What kind of advancement opportunities does this position offer?

2. What would be my first project if I am hired?

3. What are the top priorities of this position?

4. What kind of internal and external training do you provide?

5. How would you describe your company’s culture?

6. What is the natural career progression path for those with the skill set for this position?

7. What is the company’s policy on…? (Select a social or developmental issue which might affect the company, the industry, or the region, eg climate change, sustainable development, or recycling.)

8. Why did you choose this company, and what motivates you to remain?

9. When will a decision be made on the successful candidate?

10. What is the compensation range for persons with the right skill set for this position? (Don’t let this be your only question.)

A careful selection from the above, asked at appropriate intervals, might allow you to set the interview in your favour.

All the best in your next interview.

Sincerely,

Career Advisor

Carolyn Marie Smith is assistant vice-president, Student Services, at Northern Caribbean University in Mandeville, Jamaica. Submit questions to her at careeradvisor@ncu.edu.jm