Job interview fail - proceed with caution when asking these questions

 

Are you just about to embark on the job seeking journey for the first time? You may have heard it’s a good idea to ask questions in an interview. This is true – as long as you are asking the right ones! There are some proceed with caution zones when it comes to questioning your potential boss, particularly in the first interview. Give yourself the best chance of getting the job by thinking carefully before uttering these words:

Anything related to specific salary or benefits: Before the interview process begins, get an idea of the salary range for this role. If it is being filled through a recruitment agency, ask them for the range during your initial discussion with them. If there is a HR contact listed in the job ad, it is worth asking them about it. Negotiations about salary and any other extras such as annual leave or bonuses usually take place only if you are offered the role – after you've had the opportunity to impress them! During the interview, focus on how right you are for the job and how valuable you would be as an employee. 

Any ‘why’ questions: But why can’t you ask why? These kinds of questions can sound rude and put people on the defensive. Rephrase a question such as, “Why did the company retrench staff last year?” to a less confrontational, “I read about last year’s cutbacks, what’s your opinion on how the organisation is positioned for the future?”

Anything you could find out yourself through a quick Google search: There are some questions that could backfire on you. You may think asking, “Who is your competition?” is thoughtful and reasonable. Your interviewer may think, “This candidate has done no research whatsoever.” Before asking any question, determine whether it’s something you could have figured out yourself by Googling it. If it is, don’t ask it and do that search before your interview.

Any questions related to staff performance reviews: You could be trying to convey that you’d welcome the chance to be reviewed every six months, but questions about reviews can seem like you’re concerned about how often negative feedback might be given. Either avoid the topic altogether, or at least wait until you have received an offer or are in the final stages of interviews.

Anything related to work / life balance or special favours: Yes, work / life balance is a hot topic nowadays, but it’s not the most pressing consideration for your hiring manager. If you need to start early, leave early or work from home occasionally, the interview is not really the time to discuss it. Focus on the task at hand – getting the job! These details can be ironed out at offer stage, and once you start earning your boss’ respect on the job. If you really need to get an answer here, try going for a more subtle approach like: "Can you describe what an average day is like for members of your team".

Don’t be remembered for all the wrong reasons –only ask questions like these with care and at the appropriate time to ensure you shine in your interviews. 

Alex Malley -The Naked CEO

Alex is The Naked CEO

Alex is The Naked CEO