Interview Questions to Avoid Asking

You've made it to the end of the interview. You're proud of your performance. You're certain you've made an impression and feel confident in the work you've presented. You think: I nailed it…and then your interviewer hits you with:

So, do you have any questions for me?

It can catch even the strongest of candidates off guard. This is your first impression, after all.

Interviews can be as daunting as a first date. Plus, they have a lot of the same emotional hallmarks: the joy of landing the interview, the anticipation and hope that it will go well, and the nerves. 

You and your potential employer are meeting for the first time to test the waters, both of you hoping that you're the right fit for one another. And just like a first date, asking the wrong questions can send off a few red flags.

Luckily, a little research, practice, and dedication will help you leave a positive lasting impression.

AVOID GOING IN BLIND

An interview is a conversation, so set yourself up for success by doing your research ahead of time. There are two things that may raise red flags for employers: a potential hire's lack of questions and/or their lack of knowledge of the company.

A lack of insightful questions can make the candidate appear insecure or unprepared, or worse - disinterested.

Avoid questions about a company that can be answered by a simple Google search. Familiarize yourself with the company mission and industry standards, and inquire about the ideal vision for the organization. This information can often be found on the company's website.

An interview is a time to sell yourself as a potential asset to a future employer. Demonstrating preparation and forethought through company knowledge and insightful questions can turn the tide of an interview in your favor.

Tip: Be careful with asking questions that begin with "why." "Why" can come off as inherently confrontational and/or accusatory and put your interviewer on the defense.

Avoid asking about benefits at the wrong time

While it's natural to be curious about the details of a position, such as benefits and salary, they are never the intent of the hiring manager's interview.

Although we're inching toward a salary-transparent job society where discussion of pay is mentioned upfront to save candidates and hiring managers their time, inquiring about compensation with the wrong person or during the wrong time can raise concerns.

Tip: As a general rule of thumb, save discussion of compensation and benefits for the recruiter. Utilize your time with the hiring manager to understand the role's responsibilities and expectations.

Don't get personal

Although we may be comparing an interview to a first date, it bears stating: an interview is not a first date. Interviewees are presenting the best version of themselves to a hiring manager by showcasing how their set of skills can benefit the company.

Ask questions that highlight the culture, morale, or communication styles of the team; inquire only about topics applicable to the interview process, and avoid asking anything personal.

Avoid asking where else you would fit in the company

It can be easy to put the cart before the horse when you're applying for a role at a company you'd want to work for. Candidates don't want to let the opportunity slip them by, but that eagerness can lead to wanting any position a specific organization can offer. It's not inherently negative, but it can translate poorly when asked during the first interview, especially if it crosses lines of seniority or function.

Tip: Instead of asking where else you can fit in an organization, which can give a poor impression, consider rephrasing your query. Ask how the company best nurtures lateral growth, or what the typical career trajectory for the position looks like.

Avoid asking about screening and oversight

Tread carefully with questions pertaining to monitoring and screening. Such questions may raise red flags:

• Does the company monitor e-mail or internet usage?
• Will my social media profiles be monitored?
• Is a drug test required for hire?
• Will you check my references?
• Will you do a background check?

While you may be curious, asking questions related to background or reference checks, drug testing, or employee monitoring may sound suspicious. It's best to err on the side of caution. The goal is to make a good impression, not unintentionally implicate yourself. 

It's never the interviewer's plan to catch you off-guard. After all, your resume stood out from the rest. They're eager to get to know you and the work you're capable of doing. They are, after all, looking for their own perfect match. With some pre-planned questions and a little bit of research, you can make yourself "the one!"

Looking for more interview tips? Connect with our FrankCrum Staffing recruiters.