The Must Ask Interview Question

One of the most difficult stages of the hiring process is the interview. For a job seeker this can be an extremely nerve-racking experience. The most worrisome part of the interview, for many candidates, is when they have the opportunity to ask the questions. The majority of candidates know it’s recommended to ask something, but what exactly should be asked?

"Do You Have any Concerns About Hiring Me?"

This question should be the very last question asked during the interview and is a must ask question for every interview that a job candidate does. Job candidates cannot be afraid to ask it. First, it shows enthusiasm about doing the job. Second, it helps find out if the hiring manager has any concerns while the job candidate is still interviewing.

Asking this question during the interview gives the job candidate the opportunity to ease the hiring mangers concerns. Once the candidate leaves the interview room, if the hiring manager has any concerns, the only thing he will hear is, “sorry you did not get the job.” If the job candidate asks this important question during the interview, he will have the ability to discuss why the employer's concerns should not be an issue.
John Kador is the author of 301 Best Questions to Ask On Your Interview. In his book, he suggests that interviews should end with the candidate asking “Do you have any questions or concerns about my ability to perform this job.” John says that the point when a hiring manager leans forward and says “Now, do you have any questions for me?” is a very serious point in the interview process. The response of job candidates at this point often determines whether they get screen out or move forward in the hiring process. This one question can end the interview with job candidates accomplishing two major points: Communicating that they want the job and ensuring that the hiring manager wants to give it to them.

Interview Question Alternatives

Some other ways to phrase this important interview question include: "Do you have concerns or hesitations based on anything we have discussed regarding my candidacy that I could address for you before I go?" "I am very excited about this position and feel that it would be a great fit. What would it take to close the deal on this position today?” “Do you have any reservations about my qualifications?”

Ask for the Job

In order to get the job, it helps if the candidate simply asks for the job. Many candidates leave doubt within the mind of hiring managers after leaving the interview by not confronting this issue of employability during the interview. The candidate question-asking period is one of the most important parts of the interview. If a candidate wants to get the job, this interview question should not be one that is overlooked.