In January, I wrote a post called “The most important question YOU can ask in an interview.” That question is, “What reservations do you have about hiring me?” As a follow-up to that post, I want to give you a “don’t” when it comes to asking this question.
Last week, I interviewed a candidate for an open position, and at the end of the interview, the point where we asked if she had additional questions she said this, “Do you have any concerns about me? That way I can refute them now.” My reaction was, Whoa lady, that’s a definite concern. This question isn’t a setup. It isn’t a ploy in an interview process. Yes, it’s an opportunity to quell any concerns they might have. But you shouldn’t say outright that’s what you’re doing. It was like someone saying, “Why don’t I read to you from my prepared list of weaknesses and strengths?”
So the moral of the story is this: if you’re going to ask the question, ask it with gusto, confidence and assurance – pointedly and professionally. Otherwise, you run the risk of looking like a scared, lost puppy who can’t find its way to a job interview.
About the Author: Marcy Twete
Marcy Twete is the Founder and CEO of Career Girl Network and the author of the book “You Know Everybody! A Career Girl’s Guide to Building a Network That Works.” At Career Girl Network, Marcy provides women with information, resources, and networking to empower them in their careers and to advance the work of women in business as a whole. Prior to launching Career Girl Network, Marcy worked in numerous nonprofit organizations and as a consultant in the field of nonprofit fundraising, marketing, and community relations. Marcy is a graduate of the College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph, Minnesota, and a native of rural North Dakota. She is the Vice Chair of the Chicago Board of Directors for Step Up Women’s Network in Chicago and a member of the Advisory Board for Girls on the Run Twin Cities, and is dedicated to advancing the work of organizations that move the needle for women and girls worldwide.
Thank you for sharing this. I learned a lot from reading it.
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