Interview Questions to Steer Clear Of

A job interview is a chance for both the employer and the candidate to connect. At its core, it’s a dialogue that assesses whether the job seeker is the right fit for the position and the organization.

During the interview, you’ll face a range of questions that gauge your understanding of the company, your experience, your enthusiasm for the role, and your long-term career aspirations. Equally important, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions about the company and the position. However, it’s crucial to choose your questions wisely, as your inquiries will reflect your attitude and intentions towards both the role and the organization. Here are some questions you should steer clear of:

1. What Does Your Company Do?

It’s a major faux pas to ask about the company’s basic functions during your interview. This question signals that you haven’t done your homework. Just as the interviewers prepare by researching you, you should familiarize yourself with the company’s mission, values, and operations. If you can find information on the company’s website, don’t waste the interviewer's time asking about it. Such questions can raise doubts about your interest in both the company and the position.

2. What is the Salary for this Position?

While it’s natural to be curious about compensation, bringing up salary in the initial interview can backfire. Asking about pay too soon may suggest that your primary motivation is the paycheck rather than the job itself. Employers want to hire individuals who are genuinely passionate about their work.

3. Do I Have to Work Overtime or on Weekends?

Asking this kind of question can make you seem hesitant or unwilling to fully commit to the role. Employers look for candidates who are ready to invest their time and effort into the job. If you imply that you want to minimize your workload, they may question your dedication and fit for the position.

4. How Soon Can I Expect a Promotion?

Instead of directly asking, “How quickly can I get promoted?” try rephrasing it to, “What growth opportunities does the company offer?” This approach shows that you’re genuinely interested in your role and the potential for development, rather than just focusing on the financial aspects.

5. Did I Land the Job? Am I Chosen for the Role?

It’s natural to be eager for feedback after an interview, but instead of inquiring whether you got the job, consider asking if there are any further rounds in the selection process. Maintain a calm demeanor—appearing overly eager can come off as desperation. Interviewers appreciate candidates who are humble, light-hearted, and sincere. If they’re interested in you, they’ll usually give subtle hints. Remember, during an interview, it’s important to avoid asking certain questions that may create a negative impression or signal a lack of commitment to the position.

6. What’s the company culture like?

Instead of directly asking about the challenges of the company culture, you might reframe your question to explore how you can positively contribute to the culture.

7. Can I work from home?

While this is an important aspect, it may come off as lack of commitment to the office setting. A better approach is to ask about the company’s general policies or flexibility regarding remote work once you’ve built a connection.

8. How often do employees get fired?

This question could create an unintended negative impression, suggesting concerns about job security. Instead, focus on asking about opportunities for growth and performance within the company.

9. What do you do if someone doesn’t get along with their boss?

This might raise concerns, so consider inquiring about the team’s approach to conflict resolution and collaboration instead.

10. Is there a dress code?

While practical, this question can unintentionally suggest a lack of professionalism. You could observe the interviewer’s attire or inquire about the company’s overall approach to professionalism in a more general sense.

By avoiding these questions and focusing on constructive inquiries, you’ll create a positive impression and better showcase your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role. Prepare yourself in advance to know the right questions to ask; this will help you convey confidence and enhance your chances of a successful interview.