CAREERS NOW 04-07-10

Asking Questions To Turn the Tide in Interviews

DEAR JOYCE: I have read again and again that one should ask good questions during job interviews. But I'm never sure what to ask that would help me get the job. What are your favorite questions in this regard? - F.N.

Question guru John Kador answers your question. Author of the just-out book "301 Best Questions to Ask on Your Interview: Make an Impression and Get the Job!, 2nd Edition" (McGraw-Hill Professional), Kador has a new working definition of the term "question." It is:

"An expression of inquiry that communicates your focused curiosity regarding the problem to be solved, confidence, practical intelligence, coachability, and positive attitude that increases the likelihood that you will be offered a job."

Kador's definition sounds high-flown but it has a down- to-earth application. A few examples:

-- What's the most important problem I can solve within the first 60 days?

Asked early on in the interview, this question communicates that you are solution-minded, focused on quick results, and willing to be held accountable for results.

-- I would like to be offered this job. Now that we have spoken, do you have any reservations at all about my qualifications or experience?

This question shows superior confidence, making you stand out. Moreover, if you do hear an objection, you have a chance to overcome it.

-- Everything in this interview so far suggests to me that my experience and qualifications are a perfect match for the job you described. I know your recommendation for the best candidate carries a lot of weight in the selection process. May I have your endorsement?

Even if the interviewer ducks this bold question, you probably stand alone in expressing such action-oriented confidence. This is an especially effective sales-closing tactic for sales and marketing candidates.

Examples of self-limiting questions Kador advises that you not ask are these two:

-- Can you tell me whether you have considered the incredible benefits of telecommuting for this position?

Why do you want to get out of the office before you have even seen it?

-- The job description mentions weekend work. Are you serious?

We're serious about the job description. We're suddenly less serious about you.

Kador's exceptional book is chockablock full of questions to ask that can win a hiring offer - and those never to ask that can sink your chances. This is one book you haven't read a zillion times before.

DEAR JOYCE: I write an online blog. How can I discourage others from copying my work without my permission? Copyright? - D.M.

I'm not a lawyer but that's where I'd start. Stephen Fishman is both a lawyer and legal writer. His book for you is "The C opyright Handbook: What Every Writer Needs to Know, 10th Edition" (Nolo Press, 2008). Nolo offers a free buffet of legal advice on its Web site, nolopress.com, but, to pin down important details, I'd want to study a copy of the well-reviewed guidebook.

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