Don’t Ask Your Interviewer These Questions!

Marcianne Kuethen

Updated May 22, 2024

Job interviews can be nerve-wracking experiences, and it’s natural to want to make a good impression on the interviewer. While there are plenty of questions you should ask your interviewer, there are certain questions that you should avoid asking during an interview, as they can come across as unprofessional or even rude. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the questions you should steer clear of and why.

1. “What does your company do?”

This question demonstrates a lack of preparation and research on your part. Before attending an interview, it’s essential to thoroughly research the company, its products or services, and its industry. Asking such a basic question can make you appear disinterested or uninformed, which is not the impression you want to give.

2. “How much does this job pay?”

While compensation is undoubtedly an important factor when considering a job offer, it’s generally advisable to avoid asking about salary during the initial interview stages. This question can make you seem overly focused on money rather than the job itself. Instead, wait for the interviewer to bring up the topic of compensation or until you’ve received a job offer.

3. “Will I have to work long hours?”

This question can come across as lazy or unwilling to put in the necessary effort. Employers want to hire individuals who are dedicated and willing to go the extra mile when needed. Instead of asking about work hours, focus on expressing your enthusiasm for the role and your commitment to contributing to the company’s success.

4. “How soon can I take a vacation?”

Asking about vacation time or other benefits during the initial interview stages can make you appear more interested in the perks than the actual job. It’s best to wait until you’ve received a job offer and are negotiating the terms of employment before inquiring about benefits.

5. “Why is this position available?”

While it’s natural to be curious about the circumstances surrounding the job opening, this question can be seen as prying or even accusatory. Instead of asking directly, you can phrase your question in a more positive way, such as “Can you tell me more about the team I’ll be working with and the opportunities for growth in this role?”

6. “Did I get the job?”

Asking this question during the interview itself can come across as presumptuous and impatient. The interviewer will likely inform you of the next steps in the hiring process and when you can expect to hear back. Avoid putting them on the spot by asking directly if you’ve been selected.

Remember, the interview is an opportunity for you to showcase your qualifications, professionalism, and enthusiasm for the role. By avoiding these types of questions, you can make a positive impression and increase your chances of landing the job.

Marcianne Kuethen

Marcianne Kuethen is a Senior Writer at Amtec, where she has written over 700 blog posts in the past 18 years. Her family has led the company across three generations, from her father who founded Amtec in 1959 to her son Barrett who serves as President and CEO today. Outside of writing, she makes art, music, and gardens.