Candidates are often nervous during an interview. As a result, they struggle with the tie up interview question. You know the one that nearly all interviewers ask - "Do you have any questions for me?" Most candidates respond "No, you've already covered all of my questions". There should always be something that you're curious to know. The problem isn't that you don't have questions, the problem is often that you're unsure what is appropriate to ask. Here is a short list of appropriate interview questions that will help you gather good intel on your potential employer...

• I read in the Wall Street Journal that your company is expanding, is this position open as a result of that expansion? Employers are often impressed when a candidate has done a bit of research and asks appropriate and timely questions.

• How many employees work in this office? Unless the employer has only one office and the number of employees is listed in the news or on their company website, it is always good to ask how many potential coworkers you'll have should you be hired. It shows an interest in the firm and sets you up for follow up questions.

• What is your corporate culture like? What employer wouldn't want to dote on how well its employees get along. A good interviewer will even share some examples of things that are working particularly well (i.e., annual community service day where all employees volunteer together at a clothing drive).

• How long have you been with the company? Interviewers who feel good about where the interview is going will gladly share a few details about their personal experience with the company. Those who aren't feeling quite as good will still answer the question, even it it's a simple "I've been here 3 years". That's still good information. You could then follow up with "You've been here a good while, you must really like it here."

• You've been here 3 years? You must really like working here. I hope you don't mind my asking - What do you like most about working for the company? This shows a high interest level and also implies that you intend to stick around for a long time too.

Questions like there are positive and open ended. Asking open ended questions leaves room for the interviewer to open up to you and share as much (or as little) as they'd like. The more comfortable they are, the more they'll share. And you'll gain some valuable insight into the company to boot!