Generally, job interviews wrap up with the interviewer offering candidates the chance to ask a few questions. This is your moment to shine. The best questions convey that you’re a curious and engaged candidate.
Some questions, however, can make you seem unprepared, self-centered, or just plain awkward. To help you leave a great final impression, here are 6 questions that you should never ask an interviewer.
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“So, how did I do?”
This question puts the interviewer in an awkward position. If the interviewer hasn’t decided they want you for the position yet, they might not feel confident in giving you a genuine answer. Maintain your composure, remain confident, and trust the process; they’ll follow up with you if they’re interested.
“How soon can I take time off?”
Inquiring about vacation time before you even get the job can make it seem like you aren’t that interested in actually working there. It sends the message that you’re more concerned about your escape than your day-to-day role and contributions to the team.
“What does the company do again?”
Ask this and you’ll immediately cast yourself as an unprepared amateur. Any interviewer would find it suspect if a job candidate didn’t already know the basics about the company. Do your research before you go in and walk in, ready to discuss the company’s mission, industry, and a bit of its history.
“Do you check social media accounts?”
Even if this is a joke, it’s not a great question. It makes the interviewer wonder if you’ve posted anything inappropriate on your accounts or if you’re worried, they’ll find something that you didn’t mean for them to see. Focus on talking about your professional strengths.
“Will I have to work long hours?”
Asking this is a classic way to sound like you’re just trying to take it easy. The implication is that you don’t want to work hard and that you’ll do the bare minimum when it’s required to stay late, come in early, or put in extra effort. The question is understandable; just try to rephrase it in a way that doesn’t sound like a complaint.
“How quickly can I get promoted?”
Ambition is good, but you’re still in the early stages of the interview process. Asking this question too soon can make you sound impatient, and as if you’re not really interested in the position that you’re applying for. Show them you’re eager to advance, but make it clear you’ll do everything in your power to succeed first.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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