Job interviews are often dreadful but necessary in the process of landing your dream job. It is equally important to avoid asking the wrong questions, which may derail your chances of getting the job despite being a good fit and showing interest.
A job interview is actually a two-way affair; it gives the company a chance to evaluate whether the employee meets their needs, while also providing the employee with the chance to determine whether the company meets his or her needs. However, deviating with poorly constructed questions may lead to incorrect analysis.
Outlined below are the questions not to ask a potential employer’s HR representative and the reasons why avoiding them will increase your likelihood of presenting yourself in the best possible manner. We will also help you understand which types of questions are more relevant in this context.
Why Some Questions Are Important During an Interview
Some candidates for a certain job are distinguished by how well they can ask the right questions during an interview. On the other hand, asking improper or narrowly focused questions can be undesirable. This can make the interviewer think that you are not professional, not prepared for the job or the interview, or in some way unhappy with the job.
Every question you ask should indicate your willingness to learn and how you plan to make a difference within the organization in this capacity, as opposed to focusing on the benefits you expect to derive from the opportunity.
The Impact of Asking the Wrong Questions
Before diving into specific questions to avoid, it’s essential to understand the impact that poorly phrased or ill-timed questions can have. Misguided inquiries may:
- Imply unprofessionalism: You could appear disinterested in the actual role, and more concerned about benefits or personal conveniences.
- Signal that you haven’t done your homework: Asking questions easily found through a quick internet search can give the impression that you are unprepared.
- End the interview on a sour note: Ending with a negative impression, even after a strong interview performance, can be detrimental to your chances.
By steering clear of the following questions, you can ensure your interview remains positive, productive, and professional.
Questions Not to Ask During a Job Interview
1. “What does this company do?”
Just asking this question is a big no-no. It also tells HR that you haven’t taken the time to research the company. Self-generated information is common nowadays, as it can be found on the company’s website, LinkedIn, and in media articles. The lack of effort shown by the interviewee in researching the company is evident when someone goes for an interview without doing some background check.
Instead, say something like: “I noticed on your website that the company has been expanding into international markets recently. Could you tell me more about the challenges or successes that came with that expansion?” This shows you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the company’s activities.
2. “When can I expect a promotion?”
While ambition is appreciated, asking about promotions too early may give the impression that you are more focused on advancing your career quickly rather than contributing to the company’s success. It can also suggest that you’re not interested in the role you’re interviewing for and only see it as a stepping stone.
A better approach would be: “What are the key performance indicators that the company looks at when evaluating employee growth?” This type of question demonstrates a desire to succeed and grow within the company while showing that you are interested in understanding what it takes to excel.
3. “How many sick days or vacation days do I get?”
While this is essential information, asking this question in your initial interview may imply that you’re more concerned about time off than you are about the job itself. It can also give the impression that you’re planning on taking time off even before starting.
This topic is best left for later discussions, such as when you’re in the final stages of the interview process or after an offer has been made. If you must ask, consider phrasing it in a way that shows you’re curious about the company’s work-life balance culture, like: “Could you tell me more about the company's approach to work-life balance and overall employee wellness?”
4. “Do you conduct background checks or drug tests?”
This question can be interpreted as a red flag, especially if you are asking early in the interview process. Even if you have nothing to hide, this can raise unnecessary suspicion about your past.
If you are concerned about these checks, wait until you’ve been offered the position, as most companies will provide this information once they extend an offer.
5. “Can I work from home or is the schedule flexible?”
Remote work has become more common, but asking this question too soon could signal that you are more interested in flexibility than the role itself. While work-life balance is important, focusing too much on flexibility without first understanding the demands of the job can come across as self-serving.
Instead, inquire about the company culture: “How has the company adapted to remote work, and how do you support employees in maintaining a healthy work-life balance?” This acknowledges the importance of flexibility while still respecting the responsibilities of the position.
6. “What is the salary for this position?”
Salary is undoubtedly an important factor in any job decision, but asking about it too soon can give the impression that your primary concern is money. Discussing compensation is crucial, but this conversation is typically best saved for the later stages of the hiring process.
A more tactful approach would be to focus on demonstrating your value to the company during the interview and then wait for HR to broach the subject of salary. Once an offer is on the table, it’s entirely appropriate to negotiate compensation.
7. “How did I do?”
Asking for feedback during the interview may seem harmless, but it can come across as insecure. HR may feel uncomfortable providing immediate feedback, especially if the decision-making process involves multiple rounds or requires input from other team members.
Instead, leave the interview on a positive note by saying: “Thank you for your time and consideration. I’m excited about the opportunity and look forward to hearing from you soon.” This demonstrates confidence without putting the interviewer in an awkward position.
8. “What’s the turnover rate like here?”
While it’s important to know whether a company has a high turnover, asking this question can appear as though you’re skeptical about the company from the start. Turnover rates can be sensitive subjects, and there are more strategic ways to gather this information.
Instead, consider asking: “How would you describe the company culture, and what steps does the organization take to ensure employee satisfaction?” This allows you to gather insights on turnover without being too direct.
9. “Are there any other positions I might be a fit for?”
This question can signal that you’re not particularly interested in the job for which you’re interviewing. It also suggests that you may not believe you’re qualified for the role, which can weaken your case.
Rather than casting a wide net, focus on the role at hand. If HR feels you’re better suited for a different position, they will bring it up. Your goal is to show them why you’re the best fit for the specific role they’re offering.
10. “Can I start this job part-time?”
Unless the position is specifically advertised as part-time, asking to start part-time or adjust the hours could give the impression that you aren’t fully committed to the role. Companies are typically looking for individuals who are ready to jump in full-time, so proposing alternatives may raise concerns about your dedication.
If flexibility is something you truly need, wait until later in the interview process or after an offer has been made to discuss it. By that point, HR will have a better understanding of your skills and value, making them more likely to entertain such requests.
The Importance of Professionalism and Curiosity
Interviews are your opportunity to demonstrate your professionalism, curiosity, and genuine interest in the company and role. Asking the right questions shows HR that you’ve done your research, are serious about the job, and want to understand how you can contribute to the company’s success. On the flip side, asking the wrong questions can diminish your chances of landing the role.
By avoiding the questions highlighted above, you’ll leave a lasting impression of professionalism, foresight, and consideration—qualities every employer seeks.
Appropriate Questions to Ask
Now that you know what to avoid, let’s briefly touch on the types of questions that will reflect well on you. Consider asking questions like:
- “What does success look like in this role?”
- “How does this team collaborate with other departments?”
- “Can you tell me about the company’s growth plans over the next few years?”
- “What are the next steps in the hiring process?”
These questions demonstrate that you’re thinking about how you can contribute and that you’re engaged in the company’s goals.
Conclusion
Navigating a job interview successfully requires preparation, professionalism, and knowing the types of questions to avoid. Asking the wrong questions can make you appear unprepared, uninterested, or self-serving. Conversely, asking thoughtful, well-researched questions can leave a strong impression on HR, positioning you as a top candidate. Be strategic about the questions you ask, and you’ll be one step closer to securing the role you want.
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