Job Interview: 10 Questions to Ask the Panel and Those to Avoid

Job interviews are challenging for most of us and even with thorough preparation we still still remain a bit anxious. In this website we provide all the tips to make sure you make it to the shortlist and then ace the interview.

In almost all the interviews you attend you will be given a chance to ask questions to clarify issues relating to the job. Many candidates leave wrong impressions during this time even when they are technically sound.

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Ten Interview questions NOT to Ask at your job interview

Question 1: What does the company do?

Failing to research the company before an interview reflects poorly on your preparation. Asking basic questions about the company’s core business suggests a lack of initiative and interest.

Question 2: How often can I work from home?

While work-life balance is important, asking about remote work options too early may give the impression that you are more focused on personal convenience than the job itself. Save this question for later stages of the hiring process.

Question 3: What is the salary for this position?

Salary discussions are crucial, but it’s advisable to let the employer bring up the topic first. Jumping into salary discussions too early can be perceived as prioritizing compensation over the job’s responsibilities and challenges.

Question 4: Can I change my work hours?3

Questions about flexibility in work hours might be seen as a red flag, indicating potential time management issues. It’s best to focus on your ability to meet the job requirements and discuss any scheduling concerns later in the negotiation process.

Question 5: How quickly can I get promoted?

While ambition is commendable, asking about promotions too early can come across as presumptuous. Concentrate on showcasing your skills and enthusiasm for the role during the interview, and save discussions about career advancement for a later stage.

Question 6: Do you perform background checks?

Avoid questions that raise concerns about your qualifications or integrity. If there are issues regarding background checks, it’s typically addressed later in the hiring process.

Question 7: How many vacation days do I get?

While it’s natural to be curious about benefits, asking about time off too early in the interview may convey a lack of focus on the job’s responsibilities. Save benefit-related questions for discussions after you receive a job offer.

Question 8: Can I work from a specific location?

Unless remote work is a standard part of the job, asking to work from a specific location may imply inflexibility or a lack of commitment to the workplace.

Question 9: Can I bring my child to work from time to time?

While workplace culture is essential, asking about bringing a child to work may be premature and give the impression that your focus is more on personal comfort than professional contributions.

Question 10: Can I leave work early occasionally?

While flexibility is valued, asking about leaving work early too early in the interview process may give the impression that you are not fully committed to meeting job expectations.

Interview Questions TO ASK

Below are ten questions that  shows that you take keen interest in the organisations and have a good understanding of how organisations work.

Question 1: Can you describe the company culture?

Understanding the company culture is crucial to determining if you will thrive in the work environment. This question allows you to gain insights into the values, communication style, and overall atmosphere of the organization.

Question 2: What opportunities for professional development are available?

Demonstrate your commitment to growth and learning by asking about professional development opportunities. This question not only shows your ambition but also gives you an idea of how invested the company is in the continuous growth of its employees.

Question 3: How would you describe the team dynamics?

Asking about team dynamics provides valuable information about the collaborative nature of the workplace. Understanding how teams function and communicate can help you assess if you will be a good fit and contribute effectively to the organization.

Question 4: What does a typical career path look like within the company?

This question shows your long-term interest in the company and your desire for career advancement. It provides insights into the company’s commitment to promoting from within and helps you envision your potential growth trajectory.

Question 5: How does the company measure success?

Understanding the metrics used to evaluate success within the company is essential. This question demonstrates your goal-oriented mindset and aligns your aspirations with the organization’s overall objectives.

Question 6: What are the main challenges or projects the team is currently facing?

This question demonstrates your interest in the team’s current priorities and challenges. It also provides an opportunity for you to showcase how your skills and experience can contribute to overcoming those challenges.

Question 7: Can you tell me more about the onboarding process?

Understanding the onboarding process shows your commitment to a smooth transition into the company. It also helps you prepare for what to expect in the initial weeks and months on the job.

Question 8: How does the company foster a work-life balance?

While avoiding specific questions about vacation days or leaving early, inquiring about the company’s approach to work-life balance shows your concern for a healthy and sustainable work environment.

Question 9. Can you share some success stories of employees who have grown within the company?

This question allows you to hear about real examples of career progression within the organization, giving you a sense of the company’s commitment to employee development.

Question 10. What are the next steps in the interview process?

Showing enthusiasm and interest in the next steps of the hiring process demonstrates your eagerness for the position without prematurely discussing compensation or benefits.

Conclusion

Last word of caution, please recognise that you are the one being interviewed for a job, so do not ask more than two questions for the interview. Also, avoid too many follow-up questions that might turn your interview awkward and possibly make the interview last much longer than anticipated.