5 Ready-To-Go Questions to Ask at Your Next Job Interview

If you've been involved in a job search, you know there is always that point in the interview process, usually toward the end of an interview, where the interviewer asks, "Do you have any questions for me?" If you're not prepared, it could take you by surprise and you'll find yourself stuttering and stammering around trying to come up with something to say.

You probably take the time to prepare answers for job interview questions that you expect to be addressed during the interview such as knowing how to articulate your strengths and weaknesses, discussing your skill sets, or how you handled a difficult situation in the past. Don't blow the end of the interview trying to come up with something, anything to say-be prepared and end the interview on a positive note.

The following are 5 "Ready-to-Go" questions to ask employers - you can ask "as is", or modify them to fit your situation:

Question #1: From the informatio
I've given you about my work background, do you think my talents and skill sets will enable me to serve you and your company well in this role?

The answer to this question will be a good indicator as to what essential skills the hiring manager expects you to be able to do while hitting the ground running. You'll also get a feel for skills you may not be strong in, but can learn along the way. This gives you an overall idea of where you stand in the eyes of the hiring manager.

Question #2: Can you describe to me some of the challenges you see for this position, especially in the beginning while getting familiar with the position and its' responsibilities?

This information will reveal what level of stress may be involved in this role, what types of activities you'll be involved in to accomplish the short-term goals, how much of a learning curve you can expect, and may give you an idea of just how long it may take you to get up to speed and feel comfortable in the role.

Question #3: Could you tell me a little bit about the overall morale of the employees and the company culture?

If you want to know whether or not you'll fit into the company's culture and work environment, knowing how the current employees feel about their situation is a good starting point. Is it so corporate that people are high-strung and stressed out all of the time? Is it a more laid back environment, or more middle of the road? These are some of the factors that may conce
you because only you know what type of work environment stifles your abilities and creativity and what energizes or motivates you.

Question #4: Can you tell me about your leadership style? For example, could I feel comfortable approaching you openly to discuss a conce
or to ask a question?

It is important that you know up front whether or not you can feel comfortable approaching your supervisors or managers. Is the door always open, or is it more of a "figure it out on your own" environment? Knowing whether or not you can feel comfortable working in an environment that fits your personality and style is important. For example, if someone's management style is direct, loud, or abrupt, can you honestly deal with it every day if you're a quiet and easy going person?

Question #5: I am very interested in the position with your company. Could you tell me what the next step is in the interview process?

Whatever you do, don't pass up this opportunity to end the interview by leaving a lasting "positive" impression in the hiring manager's mind. It's wise to use this part of the interview to show that you really are interested enough in the company and position that you'd like to know what to do next. This demonstrates your eage
ess to move forward.

Asking questions helps you to find out more "insider information" about the company, position, and the actual responsibilities and activities you'll juggle once onboard. The answers help you determine whether or not the position really is the best fit for you and the hiring company. It's better to get as much information as you can ahead of time so when it comes down to a decision-you make the best one possible.