Question: How many questions should I ask after the interview? Is there a possibility that too many questions (even though they’re reasonable) are excessive? –Anonymous

Answer: There’s a fine line here. On one hand, I understand why you’d want to ask more than one or two. You want to seem engaged and interested in the opportunity. Maybe you only had a single question in mind before the interview but came up with more that you realized you wanted to ask

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Question: Even when a job description only asks for a resume, is it important to also include a cover letter and references?”—Stacey B., Chicago

Answer: Absolutely! It’s worth it to take the time to send a complete application—resume and cover letter, with references if applicable. Many times, sending just a resume or a template cover letter with stock phrases indicates that you’re applying for several different jobs at one time, which can make the hiring manager take you less

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Question: In salary negotiations, how do you determine the best place to start? I’m not sure how to find an acceptable price point or good salary to start from. What’s my worth? –A. Chatman, Chicago

Answer: More often than not, salary negotiations are an unpleasant affair. They’re wrought with anxiety that you’re potentially lowballing yourself or setting the number too high, in turn knocking you out of the running for the position. When determining the best place to start, it’s important to first realize that the conversation doesn’t have to

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Question: What is the protocol for following up after interviews? What does it mean to be too pushy or too lax? –A. Brookover, Arlington, VA

Answer: Consider the time after your interview as an unofficial extension of the conversation you had with the hiring manager. You’ll want to reach out promptly—time is of the essence here and can make or break your candidacy for the position. That being said, following up is simpler than you would think! There really is

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