What to Ask at Your Interview

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Hi Alison,...I am not being all smart-alecky here but the one question that is never asked is WHEN CAN I START?
I know many will say this is too aggressive, but what it will do is help the candidate uncover any hidden agendas that the interviewer might not be sharing, etc. And, of course, the interviewer will have to come clean with any objections about the candidate. So, why not get them in the open so you can respond.

GL HOFFMAN of MN 4:30PM May 29, 2008

I was completely blown off by the interviewer who proceeded to talk to me like I was a child "Oh, well, its just so varied there's really no such thing as a typical day"
That was obnoxious, but also really telling. I didn't get called back for another interview and I kind of think that question was why, but I also didn't want to work for someone who was so clueless about his employees that he didn't know what they did all day.

Admin Girl of OR 1:22PM May 29, 2008

Great questions! I'm always impressed when a candidate comes prepared with thoughtful questions. I especially like #9, "Are there reservations you have about my fit for the position?" Candidates who are candid, genuine and open to feedback score high in my book.

Totally Consumed of OR 10:03AM May 29, 2008

I don't think it's bad form to write them down at all! In fact, I tend to like it when I ask what questions a candidate has and they pull out a list -- it shows that they were prepared and thinking about it in advance. But really, either way is fine!

Alison Green of DC 12:27AM May 29, 2008

Hey Alison would it be bad form to have these questions written down to ask? Or would a candidate portray better with a few key ones they can pluck from their brain?

Dataceptionist 7:05PM May 28, 2008

i dont usually regret things in life, but it seems those ten questions would have really saved me some time, to know if a job was suitable for me! But i have secured my ideal dream role, so im not too upset, but looking forward to any help comments you might have in the future

David O Reilly 5:40AM May 28, 2008