Do you have any questions?

“Do you have any questions?” I once asked a candidate after conducting the interview.

This one question answers more about them than the entire conversation.

Here is what he responded:

“What is your age?”

Now, I am someone who has always been vocal about her age.
If only, it is a mark of wisdom not a weakness.

However, asking personal questions in an interview is a total no-no.
It shows lack of respect for personal boundary.

Sometimes, in our attempt to “appear smart”, we end up becoming anything but smart.

So, when in doubt while having a professional conversation, always remember:

Be open to asking professional questions.
Draw boundaries on asking personal questions.