Asking Your Own Questions
As the interview winds down, the recruiter will probably say something like, “Are there any questions you'd like to ask?” It's essential to have a few questions to ask at this point — otherwise you won't seem serious about pursuing a career at that company. Some of your planned questions may already have been covered by the time you reach this stage of the interview, in which case you'll have to think on your feet.
When the interviewer asks if you have any questions, the worst thing you can say is “Nope. I'm all set.” This response suggests that you are not that interested in the job and that you didn't take the interview very seriously. Quickly reflect on the conversation you've had and ask a thoughtful question. This small detail could make or break the interview for you.
Use the questions you ask to subtly demonstrate your knowledge of the firm and the industry and to underscore your interest in a long-term career position at the firm. But don't allow them to become an interrogation — pose only two or three thoughtful questions. Don't ask questions the recruiter will find difficult or awkward to answer. This is not the time to ask, for example, “Does your company use recycled paper for all its advertising brochures?” And, of course, avoid reading directly from your list of questions.
