Some time ago, a hiring manager I know told me about several interviews he was conducting for a technical staff person. He expressed astonishment that one candidate in particular did not have a single question to ask him during the interview. "He seemed totally uninterested in us", this manager said. The candidate did not get a second interview -- no surprise.

Having a question to ask the interviewer is not a sign of ignorance on your part, unless it's something that can be answered by their Web site, such as "What is your product?" Certainly, you should check the organization's Web site before sending a resume, and of course, before the interview. Asking good questions during the interview is a sign that you do your research and are curious about the company. Employers are like people: they like to be courted, they like to know you're interested in them. Today, it's critical to do this kind of research because your competition is certainly doing it.

Web sites and Google searches are very helpful, but there are questions that a Web site or annual report cannot answer. Here are some examples:

• What is your working relationship with your team members?
• What are the goals of the department/division for this next quarter? the next six months?
• What problems need solving immediately?
• Where do you expect the person who fills this job to be achieving in one month, three months, six months?

The idea is not to grill the interviewer, which can backfire in that you sound like you're asking questions just for the sake of asking them. Instead, make it conversational.

Questions like those above and others show you have a working mind and curiosity, a couple of assets that companies today want. And the answers to such questions tell you whether or not the place is a fit for you. So ask away.

Senior recruiting expert Marni Hockenberg is a business partner to Joanne Meehl Career Services. Marni says: "I'd like to pose a question for those of you who've landed your new job or are currently in a management position: Are you unlocking the business opportunities that good hiring can cultivate? At Hockenberg Search, we have a proven track record of providing focused, personalized search services to businesses to help find, recruit and retain top-tier talent. We take pride in partnering with our clients to build a recruiting strategy customized to their respective needs and in sync with their unique business goals. Be the hero at your company - contact Hockenberg Search today to build your team and stay ahead of your competition."

Are you tired of waiting for "something" to happen in your career while watching others land good jobs? Are you ready to take action and land where you should be? Do you want to laugh at the Great Recession? Then consider a Quick Consult with the Queen. Job Search and Resume Queen, that is!

Here's what one Finance Manager said about his Quick Consult: "I feel hope for the first time in six months."

Why let more time go by with no salary or a too-low salary? Find out what's right AND what's wrong during a Quick Consult with the Queen. This 1 1/2 to 2-hour session gives you concrete steps to follow for getting unstuck. It also gives you practical insights into what YOU bring a new employer, knowledge about what sets you apart from the crowd of other candidates. The fee is $175 and the results are priceless!

And if you choose to work with Joanne on these steps, that fee is applicable to any job search project package. Contact her today.

Joanne Meehl does Quick Consults in person, via Skype, or over the phone. Call or email us today to schedule your session.