“Do you have any questions to ask?” – This is a typical question that is asked usually towards the end of an interview. After the interviewers have finished asking you the questions, now is the time for the tables to be turned and the interviewee gets to ask a few questions.

This is another opportunity for you to demonstrate your skills, enthusiasm and level of interest in the job.

A big ‘no’ is to say that you do not have any questions. That answer can send the wrong signal. It could also show a lack of interest or lack of seriousness.

In addition, avoid asking a question for the sake of asking a question. The interviewer will see right through that. It is also not a good idea to focus on asking about salary, benefits, vacations, time off etc. especially during the first interview. These questions are best left to the time when a job offer is being made, then you can negotiate appropriately.

A good strategy for answering the question – “Do you have any questions for me?” is to have a list of at least 10 to 12 questions because chances are some of the questions on your list might be covered or addressed during the interview, so you can’t ask them again. Hence it is important to have back-up questions.

Be humble and respectful as you ask your questions. However, you can also ask clarifying and probing questions through the course of the interview.

 Some good questions to ask at the end of an interview include the following:

1. What are the most important skills and qualities required to succeed in this job?
2. What changes, ideas or improvements do you expect the new staff to bring to this position?
3. What is the biggest challenge that someone in this position faces?
4. What are the key priorities for the company for the next 5 years?
5. What is the task that the new staff would have to accomplish within the first 30, 60 or 90 days?
   
   

At the end of an interview, close by saying that you are definitely interested in the job and then ask – What are the next steps in the interview process?

Remember, it always pays to be well prepared for an interview.

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