Job searching can be a nerve-wracking experience for many people. Dealing with a resume, preparing for an interview and then completing an interview can get the best of anyone. However, there is a lot that you can do to prepare. The easiest way is to think about the questions that you will ask at the end. These days, employers expect that you will ask questions, so it is best to be ready to do so.
We reached out to members of the Forbes Coaches Council to ask about the worst questions that they’ve heard potential employees ask during an interview. The answers aren’t meant to discourage, but they are meant to help you better think of questions that will leave a lasting, positive impression on your interviewer.
All photos courtesy of Forbes Councils members.1. What Exactly Does This Company Value The Most?
I often see this question suggested to candidates to ask in a job interview. But the reality is that this just shows you haven’t done your research. Company values are often displayed on their website, and you should have already learned them so that you can show how your skills, experience and personal qualities exhibit these and that you are a good fit. – Gordon Tredgold, Leadership Principles LLC
2. Tell Me More About The Company Culture.
You are expected to know about and be able to articulate what the company culture is like before you interview. Recruiters and hiring managers want to know that you already “get it” when it comes to culture. Noticing it through the web and through people who work, or have worked, at the organization is expected. Coy questions about culture and environment may seem to be in vogue, but they usually don’t work. – John M. O’Connor, Career Pro Inc.
3. Are There Any Reasons I Wouldn’t Be Considered For The Position?
Avoid ending your interview by asking if there is any hesitation about you as a candidate. The interview should be focused on why you are the perfect fit for the company and position. Consider instead asking: “Three months from now, how will you know you hired the right person for this position?” This ends the interview on a positive note and ensures you have a clear vision of what success looks like. – Kyle Elliott, MPA, CHES, Kyle Elliott Consulting (CaffeinatedKyle.com)
4. What/How Can I…?
One of the most frequent mistakes I see is asking the interviewer questions too early in the process. These questions are fine, but at the appropriate time, which is generally after an offer is received. Keep the focus on demonstrating your value and learning more about the organization’s needs. Save questions about compensation, benefits and remote work options for later steps in the process. – Candace Barr, Strategic Resume Specialists
5. Am I A Good Fit For This Position?
Candidates must assess whether a company is a good fit for them during the interview process and should feel empowered to ask questions (other than salary/benefit questions before an offer). Do not show up to the interview and only answer questions. Instead, engage in conversation, ask questions and show your knowledge about the company. Showing up authentically will lead to a better fit in the long run. – Jean Ali Muhlbauer, The Muhlbauer Companies, LLC
6. What Do You Like The Most/Least About Working Here?
This kind of question is a waste of time. The main goal of every interviewer is to put the role, organization and culture in a positive light, particularly if you are a desirable candidate. So, do not expect the unvarnished truth or waste the opportunity on a question where you can get good business intelligence. Instead, ask questions that demonstrate your research on the industry and their company. – Loren Margolis, Training & Leadership Success LLC
7. …Continue reading Pg.2 of this article on Forbes Coaches Council.