What the Hiring Manager Is Really Asking…

Often toward the end of the interview, the hiring manager will ask, “Do you have any questions for me?” Having good questions to ask shows you’ve prepared for the interview, that you want to be sure the organization is a fit for you, and that you’re interested in the organization.

• How do you think asking questions shows interest in the organization?
• Consider what aspects of the organization or role you would really want to know.
• How could you ask those questions to help boost your strengths?

Points to Emphasize

In your response, be sure to:

• Ask about topics such as management style or what the typical work week looks like.
• Use your questions to determine if you feel you’re a good fit with the organization.
• Find out the details about the position, such as start dates, special responsibilities, or if the position is new.
• Ask about the timeline of the position with questions like how soon they would need a response if you got an offer.
• Be prepared with quality questions before your interview.

• What aspects of the organization could help tell you if you’d be a good fit?
• How could you use those aspects in forming a question?
• Do you know the timeline of the position?

Mistakes You Should Avoid

To answer this question effectively, avoid these common mistakes:

• Don’t ask questions like what the company does – these show you’re not interested.
• Don’t ask about vacation time or time off before you know you have the job.
• Don’t ask about how to change your work schedule.
• Don’t ask if you got the job.

• Have you researched the organization so you can ask informed questions?
• Does your list of questions you’d want to ask include details like time off?
• Consider what questions you could ask that show you’ve done your research and preparation.

Sample Answer

Here’s an example of a response to the question, “Do you have any questions for me?”

“I wanted to ask about the management style in the organization. Is it hands-on or hands-off?  Has the supervisor worked with someone with these responsibilities before?”

Be sure all your questions you ask are positive. Give time for the interviewer to answer.

• Write the first draft of your answer with your tutor.
• Are there any words or phrases that you are not comfortable pronouncing?
• Now rehearse with your tutor until you are comfortable answering the question without the script.