At our mock interview, like at real interviews, there will be at least one opportunity for you, the applicant, to ask the interviewer questions. Smart applicants capitalize on this opportunity to learn about the job and the company, and to ask questions that show themselves in a favorable light.
Here are some things not to ask, and some ideas of what you should ask at an interview.
NO-NOs
- Do not ask about the pay or the benefits. Wait for the interviewer to bring these up. If you ask about them, it shows that you’re not really concerned with whether or not this job is a good fit for you, but you are concerned about the money you’ll make.
- Do not ask if you’ll get to work with your friend. Again, this question shows that you are concerned with the wrong things.
- Do not ask about length or frequency of breaks. Once again, you’ll appear to be concerned with not working, instead of working. There are acceptable ways to learn about your schedule, but this way is not recommended.
- Do not ask for basic company information that is available on the company website or in materials that have been provided to you. It’s a good idea to ask ABOUT information that you have already read.
- Do not have no questions. It sounds like a double negative because it is a double negative. If you have no questions prepared, you come across as unprepared, unconcerned, arrogant, and/or unintelligent. Interviewers expect you to have questions. Some of them will even ask you to ask you questions at the START of the interview. Be prepared!
YES-YESes
- Would you please talk me through a typical day/shift on the job? This question opens up the conversation about working conditions, breaks, etc. Start off with a general question like this.
- Does the company provide opportunities for training and advancement? Showing that you are interested in learning more and advancing within the company expresses that you are not just looking for a paycheck, but that you are looking to improve yourself and exceed expectations.
- What additional responsibilities are involved with this position? If you become a cashier, you will likely be doing some other duties when the store is slow. This is true for many jobs. Find out what other tasks you may “get” to perform on the job.
- What traits do you value in your employees? This question allows you a sense of whether or not your current traits match up with the company’s needs, and it gives you an insight into how the boss will respond to his or her workers. It also shows that you are concerned with finding the right fit and/or performing up to standards.
- What technology would I be learning? Most jobs require some interaction with technology tools. Show that you are interested in learning. Also, his or her answer may create an opportunity for you to emphasize your comfort or experience with technology.
- What is the appropriate attire for this position? Learn about the dress code. This is a polite and appropriate way of asking, much better than “do I have to wear …” It’s a good way to find out if you’ll have to purchase clothing or shoes for the job.
- Would you please describe the orientation process? Many jobs, especially at larger companies, have some sort of orientation program or probation period for new employees. Find out what it is, so you know what your first days on the job would be like and what kind of support you’ll receive as you adjust to your new responsibilities and surroundings.
This list is far from exhaustive. There are many more great questions (and no-nos) to ask interviewers. Remember to make this part of your interviews an extension of the conversation you (hopefully) already established from the start of the meeting.