Most candidates agree that being invited for interview is one major step toward getting the job they want. “Once I can convince them I am the right person for the job.” One of the reasons for rejection listed in the previous posting on the subject dealt with not researching the prospective employer. In my time as an IT recruiter, I found that there were certain questions that seemed to be most appropriate and useful to prove more than a casual interest.

Many interviewees are timid however, about what probing questions are appropriate to ask. Here are six key strategic questions that you should consider adding during an interview:

1. May I ask, what aspects of my background attracted you to my resume?” This should be asked of the hiring manager toward the beginning of the process, after the icebreakers and before the interview gets under way. A self-conscious person might think that to ask this question would appear to be “fishing for compliments.” Not True. How he or she responds to this question will give you revealing clues about what they are looking for, and how they estimated your potential value to their organization when comparing you to other candidates.
2. “Why is this position open?” It is hoped the interviewer will volunteer this information early in the process. IF not, you should ask. It may offer insight about the culture and expectations of the organization. If the previous incumbent was terminated for alleged performance issues, it is critical that you follow up with another probing question such as, “what aspects of his or her performance were unacceptable?” Or, “What will you expect his or her replacement to do differently?” In this case, you should try to determine as best you can whether the person was truly under-performing, or whether the expectations of the manger or company might have been unrealistic.
3. “How would describe your management style?” Do not ask this too early on in the process, as it will appear to be overly aggressive. However, by the second interview, when a comfortable rapport has been built, it is not all inapproiate. The best time to ask his question is after the manager has probed about your strengths and weaknesses or about how you like to get your work done. Reversing to the manager will shift the focus of the conversation, and give you both a better feel for your compatibility.
4. “If I were your candidate of choice, and accepted your offer of employment, what would-be the top three priorities you would want me to address during my first two months on the job?” By phrasing the question in this way, you are asking them to ASSUME you are the top candidate, planting positive seeds in their minds about you. By suggesting the SUPPOSE you accept and offer subtly reminds the manager not to falsely assume that you will automatically accept the position. The answer to this question will also offer you the best insight as to the immediate needs and priorities of the manager. The discussion that follows can be powerful, as it could offer dimensions to the job that might not have otherwise been revealed during the interview.
5. “Is there any aspect of my candidacy that is unclear or might concern you that I can clarify before I leave?” You are definitely sticking your neck out with this one, but if you can muster the courage to ask, it could enhance or possibility saves your candidacy, if it were at risk. During the interview, as in any human communications process, we all make assumptions. It is critical to flush out whether the interviewer has made false assumptions about you and addressed those concerns while you are still there in person.
6. “How soon should I expect to hear from you?” It is amazing how many qualified candidates leave without asking this important question. It is imperative that you try to understand how their selection and hiring process will work, and what the time line is. This way, you can plan effective follow-up strategies and time your calls not to be too soon or too late. If, at the end of the interview, you are interested in the position, ASK FOR IT!

It is important to attend an interview with one’s eyes wide open. Hope this helps!