During a job interview there is more to consider than just the answers you will provide. An often overlooked component of the process is the questions you ask! While the worst thing you can do is come with no questions whatsoever, one poorly conceived question could also spell disaster and nix your chances of landing the job. Aimme Groth and Eric Goldschein have put together eleven questions you’ll want to avoid when being interviewed by potential employers;
- “What are your policies surrounding benefits and vacation time?” Asking about job perks early on will make you appear self-indulgent. “It’s kind of weird when someone gets into the nitty-gritty of the benefits,” says Alison Green. “I’ve had people ask me who the health care provider is, if we have dental plans, how many vacation days we offer.” Once you’re offered the job, that’s when discussion about benefits starts
- “Can you tell me about your company?” Hopefully you’ve already done your research on the company. Ask more specific questions that show you’ve done your research.
- “Will I have to work overtime?” Instead, ask what a typical day looks like. This way, you’ll learn more about your daily responsibilities, including who you’ll be interacting with — and perhaps if people often work overtime.
- “Why did the last person leave?” Rephrase this with, “Am I replacing someone or is this a new position?” That way, you put a positive spin on the question, and you’ll know whether you’ll be blazing new territory or working within established parameters.
- “Do you think I’d be a good fit?” OR “What reservations do you have about me?” This puts a lot of unnecessary pressure on your potential employer. If he or she thinks you’d be good, they’ll let you know. Focus on selling yourself.
- “Will I have to travel or relocate?” This question makes you look inflexible. Wait for your potential employer to bring these topics up.
- “So what’s the salary for this job?” Never ask about this during a first interview. Better yet, wait for your interviewer to ask you about salary range.
- “How long do you think this interview will take? I have to be somewhere afterward.” Don’t ask this, or glance at your watch or cell phone during the interview. Generally, the longer an interview takes, the better. If you’re already asking how much work you need to put in, you’ll be seen as a whiner, not a winner.
- “What’s your policy on telecommuting and flex time?” This makes it appear as though you’re the type to skirt responsibility. Unless telecommuting or flex time was mentioned in the job description or your prospective employer brought it up, skip this one.
- “How long does it usually take to get promoted?” Stay away from questions on your growth opportunities in the company. This will make your interviewer question your intentions.
- Saying, “No, I don’t have any questions” at the end of the interview. An interview should be a conversation. A big mistake is waiting until the end of the interview to ask all your questions. But by then it may be too late.
Source: Businessinsider.com
