Good and Bad Questions to Ask in an Interview

The interview is coming to an end. Your nerves are starting to settle and here comes the finale, “Do you have any questions for me?” The interviewer asks. It is tempting to end the interview right here and respond with something like, “Umm…no, I don’t have anything else to ask.” Not asking questions may be a red flag. The interviewer wants to know that you are engaged in the conversation, interested in the position, and able to “think on your feet.” By being prepared ahead of time, and having a couple insightful questions ready, you can show the interviewer that you are attentive, qualified, and motivated.

What You Should Ask During a Job Interview

Stick to one question at a time. Think of questions that are specific to the company or job description so you can show that you did the homework! Have about three or four questions prepared similar to the ones below:

• Can you describe a typical day in this role?
• How would you describe the management style?
• What is the most challenging part of this position?
• What are the most important goals that employees are expected to accomplish within the first 90 days?
• Do you have any questions or concerns about my qualifications?
• Can you explain the next stages of the hiring process?
• Is there anything I can provide you with that would be helpful?

What You Should NOT Ask During a Job Interview

Keep your questions focused on the job you are interviewing for. Don’t blow the interview by asking questions that make you seem uninterested or unprepared. Try not to ask questions that can be answered with a simple “yes” or “no.” Stay clear of the following bad interview questions:

• What does this company do? (You should know the answer to this before interviewing.)
• Do I have to take a drug test? (If you ask this question, you lead the interviewer to conclude you need time to “clean-up.”)
• Are you going to check my references? (Similar to the question above, this one might convey that you have something to hide.)
• How quickly can I move up? (This questions gives the impression that you will not be happy in the position.)
• What other jobs are hiring here? (This shows a lack of interest in the position you are applying for.)

The main attributes an interviewer is looking for are:

1. That you have done some research and are knowledgeable about the company.
2. That you are sincerely interested in the position.
3. That you are a good fit for the job and that you would be uniquely valuable to the company.

Remember, always maintain professionalism throughout every interview. Stay on topic and demonstrate to the interviewer that you did your research. If you are still unsure about what you should or shouldn’t ask, reach out to a Real Recruiter at Personnel Source. We are here to help job seekers find meaningful employment.