By Mitch Byers, KERA 90.1 Commentator
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-488315.mp3
Commentary: Asking Questions
Dallas, TX –
As a young child, questions were a natural part of our vocabulary. As adults, I don't think we wonder any less about the world, but we don't ask as many questions. I have found this to be true in the interview process; most people seem reluctant to ask more than two or three questions. Why? It is the same reason we didn't raise our hand in Mrs. Roberts algebra class - we don't want to embarrass ourselves.
Maybe you are shy by nature and questions just don't come natural. Or maybe, like John, who is preparing for an interview, you have never thought about the advantages of asking questions.
In fact, there are numerous benefits for John to ask questions during his interview with Barry. Barry's interest in John will be encouraged or tempered based on John's enthusiasm and interest in the position. John could ask, "What are the short and long-term goals of this position?" or "How will my success be measured?" or "Barry, how long have you been with the company?" John's questions are evidence of his interest in the position. If John chooses not to ask any questions, Barry may very well assume that John has a low interest in the position.
John could ask any number of questions related to the industry or the product line. When Barry mentions the competitive nature of the business, John could respond, "What do you think about the recent merger between Bristol and Champion?" By thinking on his feet, John highlights his industry knowledge while being expressive and engaging.
John may need to ask questions to help clarify a vague job description. To better understand the responsibilities of the position, John could ask a clarifying question, "What are the top two or three responsibilities of this position?" If it were a leadership position, John might ask, "What percentage of the position is strategic verses the managerial and administrative duties?" If Barry responds, "The position is 10% strategic, 70% managerial and 20% administrative," then John knows which area he needs to address with greater detail. By asking a clarifying question, John assures he is addressing areas important to Barry.
John's best strategy is to sprinkle his questions throughout the interview, in a conversational style. However, in more formal interviews, the time for Questions and Answers are sometimes relegated towards the end of the interview. Though the questions won't be as spontaneous, don't miss this opportunity to ask relevant question. In this case, John might start by asking, "How would you describe your organizational culture?" or "What do people seem to like most about working here?"
Think of the interview as a time of exchanging information. Asking questions during the interview helps open the dialogue and build rapport. Questions help dissolve the formal interview into a conversation about the position. Questions provide an opportunity to build rapport. Get excited and be ready with a handful of engaging questions. "Is there anything more I can share?"
Mitch Byers is a staffing specialist based in Dallas.
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