The one thing you should never say when asked, 'Do you have any questions?' at the end of a job interview
It's the one question that's almost guaranteed to be asked at every single job interview, "So, do you have any questions?" After an hour of putting across your best self, highlighting your career achievements and responding to difficult questions about your previous experience, "Do you have any questions?" can feel like a tick-the-box, wrap-up question, giving you relief that the interview is over. However, don't be fooled by the seemingly casual and innocuous question.
Not every interviewer will offer up questions as an intentional test but, putting that aside, it presents a real opportunity for you to make a real impression and set yourself apart from the other candidates.
The one thing you shouldn't do, is say, "no, I'm ok, thanks."
You also shouldn't try to think of a question on the spot that you later regret asking. "What's the coffee like here?"
When preparing for your job interview, consider what you might ask the interviewer at the end of session - don't overthink it but have a couple of questions in mind. Do not at this stage mention salary or holidays. Nor should you ask a vague question about the company that can easily be found on their website.
Instead ask...
What does success look like in this role?
Can you tell me a bit about what it's like to work here? (this will present the interviewer with an opportunity to discuss the company from their view and will also give you a better idea of what it's really like to work at the company)
What challenges is the company facing now?
What's a typical day like?
How would you describe the culture here?
What's the long-term plan for the business?
How do you see this role progressing over the next 3 years?
So, what are your salary expectations?
Another tricky question to navigate; as you don't want to sell yourself short, nor do you want to price yourself out of the job.
If asked this question at first round interview stage, try the following: "I would never be so presumptuous as to assume I'll be offered the role, but if you are happy to offer me the position, why don't we discuss the package at that stage?"
Remember, going into any interview, you can never over-prepare. That's why we here in Start Monday place a lot of emphasis on ensuring all our candidates are fully briefed and prepared before any interview.