Most important questions to ask at a job interview

Why is it important to ask questions at an interview?

Asking questions during a job interview is important for several reasons:

1. Demonstrates your interest: Asking thoughtful and relevant questions shows the interviewer that you have a genuine interest in the position and the company. It conveys your enthusiasm and engagement with the opportunity at hand

2. Provides deeper insights: Interviews are not just about the employer evaluating the candidate; they are also an opportunity for the candidate to assess the company and the role. By asking questions, you gain a deeper understanding of the company's culture, values, goals and the expectations associated with the job. This information helps you determine if the organisation and the role are a good fit for you

3. Shows preparedness and research: When you ask specific questions about the company, its recent accomplishments, or the industry, it demonstrates that you have done your homework and have taken the time to research and understand the organisation. This showcases your dedication and proactive approach to the interview process

4. Clarifies expectations: Asking questions allows you to gain clarity on the responsibilities, challenges and opportunities associated with the role. It helps you understand what will be expected of you if you are offered the position, allowing you to make a more informed decision about whether the job aligns with your skills, interests and career goals.

5. Builds rapport: Engaging in a conversation and asking questions fosters a more interactive and dynamic interview. It allows you to establish a rapport with the interviewer, showcasing your communication skills and demonstrating that you are actively participating in the discussion

Now, let's see what questions to ask at a job interview.

Questions to ask at a job interview

Here are some questions you can consider asking at a job interview:

1. Can you describe the day to day responsibilities of this role?
2. How would you describe the company culture here?
3. What are the main challenges or projects that the team is currently working on?
4. How does this position contribute to the overall goals and success of the company?
5. Are there opportunities for professional development and growth within the company?
6. How would you describe the management style within the organisation?
7. Can you tell me about the team I'll be working with?
8. How does the company support work life balance for its employees?
9. What is the timeline for the hiring process and when can I expect to hear back?
10. What are the next steps after this interview?

It's essential to tailor your questions to the specific company and position you're applying for. Additionally, if there's any particular aspect of the role, team or company that you would like more information about, feel free to ask questions specific to those areas.

Please remember, an interview is a two way street, so take this opportunity to gather the information you need to make an informed decision about the job.

Very often there are two sides of the coin. The same applies to an interview, you should also ask questions, gather information, review and make a decision for yourself. You may not always want the job once the interview has been completed and you’ve had the opportunity to learn more about the role and the company.

By now you know what questions to ask at a job interview. Let's flip the coin to get the other perspective.

Questions not to ask at a job interview

While it's essential to ask questions during a job interview to show your interest and gather information, there are some questions you should avoid asking as an applicant. Asking inappropriate or sensitive questions can reflect poorly on your professionalism and may harm your chances of getting the job.

Here are some questions to avoid:

1. Questions about salary and benefits: Avoid asking about salary, bonuses, or benefits during the initial stages of the interview process. It's better to discuss compensation and benefits once a job offer has been extended. The exception to this is if the interviewer brings the subject of salary up, they may ask what your salary expectations are for example, so be prepared to answer this question just in case, it all forms part of your interview preparation and research

2. Questions about time off and holiday entitlement: Avoid asking about how manay days holiday you get, time or time off policies during the early stages of the interview. Focus on the job and its responsibilities instead

3. Personal questions about the interviewer: Refrain from asking personal questions about the interviewer's age, marital status or other personal matters. Keep the conversation focused on professional topics. A smart way to create rapport is to ask the interviewer about why they enjoy working for the company, or what do they enjoy most about their job.  You are demonstrating an interest in them but still keeping the conversation professional

4. Questions that have already been answered: Pay attention during the interview and avoid asking questions where answers have already been provided or are available on the company's website or job description

5. Negative questions about the company or employees: Avoid asking questions that suggest a negative attitude toward the company or its employees. Stay positive and professional throughout the interview

6. Questions about promotion and advancement: While it's essential to know about growth opportunities, avoid asking questions like, "How soon can I get promoted?" or "When can I expect a raise?"

7. Questions unrelated to the job: Stay on topic and avoid asking questions that are not relevant to the role or the company

8. Invasive questions about the interviewer's background: Avoid questions about the interviewer's personal history or any unrelated personal matters

9. Questions that reveal lack of preparation: Avoid asking questions that show you haven't researched the company or the job, as it may signal a lack of genuine interest

Along with the questions not to ask there are topics also to avoid.

Topics to avoid at a job interview

During a job interview, it's generally best to avoid discussing certain sensitive or inappropriate topics. These topics include:

1. Personal or family matters: Avoid discussing personal or family issues, as they are unrelated to the job and can distract from the professional context of the interview

2. Political and religious beliefs: It's best to steer clear of discussing political or religious topics, as they can be highly divisive and potentially create tension or bias during the interview

3. Controversial or sensitive subjects: Stay away from discussing controversial or sensitive subjects such as race, gender, sexuality or disability unless they are directly related to the job or the company's mission

4. Previous negative work experiences: While it's important to be honest about your previous experiences, dwelling on negative aspects of previous jobs or badmouthing former colleagues or employers is generally seen as unprofessional. Focus on positive and constructive aspects of your previous work experiences instead

5. Legal or confidential matters: Avoid discussing confidential information about your previous employers, clients or any legal matters you may have been involved in. Respect confidentiality agreements and maintain professional integrity

It might look like there are a lot of do's and don'ts but no worries. Everything comes down to your preparation for the job interview. With great preparation you may erase most of your nerves. Let's see how you can do that: