5 Questions You Should Ask at Your Interview

May 1, 2014
By Angela Rose for BioSpace.com

Most of us get a bit nervous when being interviewed, especially if we really want the job we’re interviewing for. After racking our brains for the best answer to difficult questions such as “What is your greatest weakness?” and “What do you hope to gain from a position with Biopharma Company X?” (money, duh), we may find ourselves dumbstruck. Then comes that inevitable, terrifying pause when the interviewer says, “Are there any questions you would like to ask me?”

Many job seekers blurt out “no,” thank the interviewer for his or her time, and make a hasty exit. If there is more than one candidate up for the position, you cannot afford to do this. Asking your own thoughtful, informed questions at the end of the interview is a powerful strategy you can use to make yourself memorable.

If you wish to be remembered favorably, avoid questions pertaining to topics already discussed (as though you have not been listening) or questions with answers that can be found through a quick Google search (as though you have not done your homework). Instead, ask questions that prove you’ve spent time learning about the organization. Here are five, customizable for just about any position, to get you started.

1. “I recently read in X that your company experienced tremendous growth last year. What is the organization’s plan for the next five years?”

2. “I saw on X that the global biopharma industry is currently undergoing transformation due mainly to patent expiry and consolidation. How do you see the future for this industry?

3. “I read in your bio that you’ve been with this biopharma company for ten years. What do you most enjoy about your work?”

4. “I heard that your company promotes from within. Where have successful employees previously in this position progressed to within this organization?”

5. “After our discussion, I am certain that I can excel in this position. What are the next steps in the interview process?”

The job market is competitive. Making yourself memorable through the questions you ask in the interview will ensure you’re considered a top candidate. Show them you’ve done your homework and the job you really want could be yours.

About the Author

Angela Rose researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends, and workplace issues for BioSpace.com.

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