Only ask if you want to come across as thinking, interested and engaged
➔ A common fear among those going into a job interview is being put on the spot. “What if they ask me a question I can’t answer?” Fear. Dread. Loathing.
Not only is that fear common, it’s also justified. So you prepare; you anticipate. You try your best to be ready for anything that they might throw at you. Good strategy.
More than meets the eye
Just as common is the notion that you somehow need to be subservient. Don’t rock the boat. Don’t upset the applecart. Don’t make the interviewer feel uncomfortable.
Certainly you don’t want to be obnoxious or arrogant in your interview. But it doesn’t necessarily follow that you should become some kind of church mouse either. This is where common sense comes into play.
A recruiter recently reminded us to not be afraid to challenge or question the interviewer. (After all, don’t they generally inquire as to whether or not you have any questions, don’t they?) Without going over the top, it’s OK to ask a question that might be considered a little edgy. For example, when they stipulate that they want five years experience, you’re well within your rights to ask, “Why is that important to you? Why five years?”
Believe it or not, according to our recruiter friend, most interviewers actually love that kind of question. It shows that you’re thinking; you’re engaged; you’re interested; and that you want to know a little more than the obvious about the position and the company. Only a lump would just sit there and say nothing.
It’s acceptable to question and challenge them. Go for it.
Commenti