So, you’ve been on your job seeking journey for what feels like forever and finally got an interview? Congratulations! Now it’s time to get down to business and prepare! Interviews can be a nerve-wracking ordeal, but this is just a chance for you and your potential employer to get to know each other, so you need to make the best first impression!
Although this blog will be focusing on the don’ts, we have lots of great information that will get you well on your way to preparing for an interview, click here to find out more. We think it is equally important to prepare you for what not to ask and why. So, this will hopefully take the pressure off so you can focus on the best questions to ask.
What Does Your Company Do?
This may be slightly obvious, because in most instances knowing the company and what they do would be one of the reasons you’d apply for a job there. Make sure you are beyond prepared with as much information about the company as possible, going a little bit further with your research will earn you serious bonus points. It’s important to focus on information that’s grabbed your attention as well, firstly because you will remember them, but if you also have a genuine interest that will come through in the interview. So, look at things like:
Their journey
The annual turnover and growth of the company
Their achievements to date
Charity work
More and more companies are also promoting their businesses through video content. This is a great way to get a first-hand impression of the company and their culture.
Can I Do This Job from Home?
Although flexible working is on the rise and would in most cases be the preferred way to work, you can’t expect to have this opportunity everywhere. You need to start a new job without the potential benefits in mind, as companies are not obliged to offer flexible working. If that is something you are looking for, put that specification into your job search so you aren’t disappointed.
When Can I Take Time off for Vacation and what is the Salary?
In the interview process this is a chance to showcase yourself in the best way possible, so asking about holidays, pay and company benefits could make the employer think that is all you are interested in. In most cases employers will advertise the pay on the job advert or tell you in the interview. But if they don’t mention it, don’t ask. They will also ask if you have any upcoming holidays and if there is a problem then it can be addressed appropriately.
What Are the Weekly Hours and Do I Work Weekends?
Again, hours would be something that is most likely posted in the job advert, and if it isn’t the employer will probably tell you.
In most cases, you won’t work weekends unless you work in industries such as; retail, charity organisations or education. But, if you are required to work weekends in a job that aren’t in those industries, it would most likely be considered as overtime, so it would be communicated to you.
How Long Would I Have to Wait to Get Promoted?
This can be a tricky one, but again something you should refrain from asking about in the interview. When you are starting to look for jobs again this is a keyword you can put into your searches. But most people will start a new job for new opportunities and a chance to develop within a role. So maybe think about how you can rephrase this question, are there development opportunities for example, this will show you are keen to develop within the company.
Did I Get the Job?
Whether you thought the interview went well or not, always wait for the employer to get back to you. Don’t assume the worst, and definitely don’t assume you’ve got the job, just prepare yourself and be open minded.
Although these points maybe obvious, nerves can take over sometimes and your behaviour can reflect that, so keeping tips like this in mind will ensure you can prepare for the important things for your interview and give the best first impression.