Aussies are overall friendly and open people but that doesn’t mean they cannot spot a liar or a blunderer from a mile away. They are perceptive people and that goes the same when they do job interviews. They are on the prowl to weed out those who are dishonest and incompetent from those who are genuinely willing to work. You have to be careful not only with your answers, but with the questions you ask as well.
If you want to ace your job interview, avoid asking these questions:
“What does your company do?”
This question reveals that you entered the building unprepared. When applying, do some research about the company, its mission and vision, and the details about the position you are applying for.
“Do I have to work long hours?”
Sometimes your company will need you to work beyond your usual nine to five shift, and that is normal as long as they are not violating any labour laws. If you are the type of person who will only log in for as long as you want, you may not be a fit for the company. Self-entitlement has no place here.
“What are the possible reasons for termination?”
This question just screams “I am going to do something wrong so I might as well know the firing process now.” And more surprisingly, it isn’t uncommon. Asking how you may get booted out sends the wrong message to the interviewer.
“Do You Monitor Your Employees’ Social Media Accounts?”
This is one of those questions better left unasked. Social media sites have taken over our lives so there might be gravity to this concern. When posting on social media, avoid anything that speaks ill of the company, your superiors, or co-workers, even if you are not friends with them. These people always have a workaround. They will know.
“This rumour about the CEO… is this true?”
Inquiring about rumours and hearsays is a sign of being unprofessional. Upping the ante by gossiping about the CEO is a bad move, mate.
“Are you single?”
We know the interviewer is impossibly good-looking, but you need to avoid asking personal inquiries. It is intrusive and unprofessional. You are there to prove yourself for a job position, not to look for a potential partner. Don’t be a creep and reserve those questions for bar conversations. Or for Tinder.
“What happened to the last person in this position?”
The last person on the job might have been fired due to misconduct or he/she could have taken a different career path. You will appear to be too prying on personal matters if you ask this question. Nobody likes someone who is too nosy. Especially employers.
“Do you monitor emails or Internet usage?”
Just like with the social media question up there, this question shows that you are hiding something. This provides a more negative impact since you are talking about the company resources and facilities. Asking this will raise red flags to your interviewer.
“When can I take a vacation?”
This glaringly (and unfortunately) shows your priorities. While your interviewer tries to find out what can you offer to the company, you are thinking of sipping piña colada while getting paid with company money. Obviously, there is disconnect in your primary concerns and therefore you do not deserve a spot in the office.
Not asking any questions at all
As much as we do not want you asking these questions, not asking anything is just as bad. An interview is like a first date. If you are the person who only talks about him/herself during the entire dinner, you won’t get a second date. Asking for further details about the company and your job description (in addition to the ones you know) shows that you are curious and eager to take on the job. That is a plus point added to your score already.
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