You already know that preparing for a job interview involves selecting a professional outfit, printing copies of your polished resume and practicing impressive responses to common questions. You’ve probably already thought about some questions that you want to ask the interviewers when you’re given the chance, but did you think about questions you should avoid? Never ask these five questions at a job interview.
1. “Can You Tell Me About Your Company?”
Don’t expect the hiring manager to describe the company’s products and services or explain the history of the organization. Do this research on your own prior to your job interview so you arrive prepared and show your sincere interest in the organization. Review the company’s website, read reviews of its products, search for new articles about the organization, and learn about the top managers. Rather than asking for the company rundown, ask about a typical workday for the position of interest.
2. “How Many Vacation Days Do You Offer?”
Avoid asking questions about paid time off, health and dental coverage, retirements plans, or tuition reimbursement during your job interview. This is an opportunity for you to demonstrate what you can do for the organization, not a chance for you to inquire about what the company can offer you. Discuss benefits and other job perks after the organization shows interest and extends a job offer. Replace this forbidden question with one about the company culture.
3. “Do You Drug Test Applicants and Employees?”
When an applicant asks the hiring manager about drug testing, it sends up an immediate red flag. Even if you’re just curious, asking this question send the impression that you have something to hide. Rather than making this inquiry, ask the hiring manager whether the organization conducts periodic employee performance reviews.
4. “What Is the Salary?”
Similar to discussing employee benefits and company perks at the job interview, salary is another topic that’s best to save until later in the hiring process. If you ask this questions during your first interview, you give the impression that you’re only concerned with money. Discuss salary at a second interview, after the job offer is extended or when the hiring manager broaches the subject. Rather than inquiring about salary, ask about advancement opportunities within the organization.
5. “How Long Is the Probation Period?”
You may alarm the hiring manager if you ask about the probationary period. It sends the impression that you doubt your own skills or that you’re nervous about the work involved. Replace this question with one about training opportunities provided by the organization.
Asking your own questions at a job interview shows that you’re interested in the position, but certain inquiries can give hiring managers the wrong impression about you. Don’t send the wrong message; never ask these five questions during an interview.
Photo courtesy of David Castillo Dominici at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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