You’re talking-to a recruiter. You’re at a networking event. You have a screening interview for a job. You have a job interview. You’re talking to a potential client. You’re meeting someone new.
You want to make a great, lasting impression.
So you focus on asking great questions.
Of course, for any job-related conversation, you are ready to talk about yourself with crisp, clear, interesting examples about your background and experience and interests.
But your questions are what will help you stand out and really capture attention, attention that leads to the next round of interviews or a job offer or a meaningful referral or another conversation.
What are great questions?
They get the listener thinking so there is a pause, a breath, maybe a gulp, eye contact and then an answer.
They are always open-ended, not yes or no.
What is a new program you launched since the pandemic?
What was a surprising failure you had recently?
They show the listener that you have done your homework, that you know about their industry or profession, that you have a sense of the context they work in.
How are you addressing remote work to keep teams working well together?
Who is your most concerning competitor?
They show the listener that you are serious about making a difference in the industry.
What skillset is most difficult to hire for in this profession?
They show the listener that you are ambitious.
Which companies do you see that demonstrate commitment to leadership development? What kinds of mentoring or professional development do they offer?
Let’s be honest. There IS valuable information that you want to find out, whether its about hiring and advancement practices, or the tough problems you may be tasked to address. When you ask great questions you not only get people’s attention (and interest), you also get insights about the work challenges and opportunity ahead. Sharpen your wit, and get your questions ready!