Never Ask These 5 Questions In A Job Interview

Job interviews can be nerve-wracking. You want to make a great impression and land the job, but you don’t want to come across poorly by asking the wrong questions. A difficult situation, right?

While it’s important to learn as much as you can, there are some questions you’ll want to avoid asking in an interview.

Here are five questions you should never ask in an interview.

1. How much vacation time do I get?

While benefits are undoubtedly important, bringing up vacation time too early in the interview process can give the impression that you value time off over the actual work.

The employer wants to know you’re dedicated to the job above all else at this point in the process. It’s best to save discussions about benefits, salary, and time off until an offer has been extended.

Wait for the right time to ask about vacation which is after receiving an offer..

2. What is the salary range for this position?

Mentioning money too soon can make you seem greedy or like the salary is your primary motivation for wanting the job.

Most hiring managers want to know the value you will bring to the table if offered the job  and therefore it is important to avoid mentioning what you want. Instead, focus on the value you will provide. f According to statistics by hiring managers, 48% said asking about salary before discussing qualifications is considered inappropriate during the first interview.

It’s best to focus on explaining why you’re qualified and would be a good fit culturally. You can always follow up with a question about compensation after presenting your value and interest in the job.

3. Will I get overtime pay?

Questions about overtime imply you expect to work excessive hours. Employers want to hire candidates who demonstrate a strong work ethic but also value reasonable work-life balance.

Mentioning overtime too early in the process could give the impression that you prioritize extra pay over having free time outside the office.

 It’s wiser to avoid bringing up issues related to overtime or compensation until later in the interview process when you’ve better conveyed your fit.

You’ll have opportunities post-interview and after receiving an offer to discuss details like overtime policies.

4. Why did the last person leave this position?

Inquiring about a predecessor too soon comes across as nosy and can put the employer on the defensive. Hiring managers want to focus on you as an applicant rather than dwell on past employees.

You risk being perceived as gossiping. It’s best to wait until later interviews or after receiving an offer to ask appropriate follow-up questions about department history if it seems naturally relevant.

For now, steer clear of questions that shift attention away from demonstrating your own qualifications.

5. How long until I get a promotion?

Questions about advancing to the next role imply you already feel above the position on offer. While career progression is important, a good candidate focuses the interview on conveying interest and fit for the job at hand rather than appearing preoccupied with the future.

In asking about upward mobility too hastily, you give the impression your priorities are out of alignment with your commitment to the immediate responsibilities of the role.

It’s wiser to avoid promotion talk and instead emphasize your enthusiasm for the opportunity and qualifications to excel in the specific function.

At the end of the day, the goal of the initial interview is to convince the employer you’re the most suitable candidate for the available job.

While details like salary, benefits, overtime, promotion timelines, and department history are all valid topics of discussion, save those questions for later in the recruitment process when you’ve had opportunities to showcase your strengths and enthusiasm for the work.

Don’t know what questions to ask and what not to ask? Invest in our interview coaching services and have a one-on-one meetup with a professional coach on how to win that interview.