5 Critical Questions Job Candidates Fail to Ask During Interviews and Why They Are So Important

Asking the right questions during a job interview is as important as answering questions with the right answers. Job interviews are the ultimate test of your communication skills at work so be prepared.

Take the time to compose questions that showcase your interest in the job and the organization. Questions can also be phrased to highlight your skills and talents when the interviewer hasn’t given you that opportunity.

Here are 5 critical questions job candidates fail to ask in an interview:

1. Ask for a description of a typical day on the job.

Even if the interviewer has described a typical day ask for further details that expand on the scope of job responsibilities and functions. Often typical day descriptions are just that–a narrow view. Ask for a bigger view with examples of tasks or additional roles you might be expected to play such as covering for co-workers during breaks or required attendance or participation at company or charity events. Listen for responsibilities that might not be considered routine for the job you are applying for.

2. Ask about any financial concerns you have about the organization.

If rumors are circulating in the industry about financial difficulties this is the time to address them. Asking a direct question in a neutral tone gives the organization the opportunity to refute rumors or explain negative news stories. It also puts them on alert should anything happen. If you take the job and the rumors turn out to be true you’ll be glad you asked.

I once took a position after the chief financial officer assured me that the company was fiscally sound despite rumors. My questions were quite direct so when the company filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy less than three months after I took the job I was given severance pay equal to my three months salary. In addition, I was given access to the search firm that connected me with the now defunct business and once again they found me a new position that started the day following the closing. Be smart–ask.

3. Ask what behaviors your immediate supervisor considers unacceptable.

You’ll want to know what drives him or her crazy and what would cause immediate dismissal. This type of question indicates values. You might think a few minutes late is no big deal but if your future boss expects you to be working at your desk at start time or earlier you’ll be clashing in no time. Adjust your expectations to match those of your supervisor or find another place to work.

4. Always ask if it is okay to take notes while the interviewer is talking .

This single question might make the difference between receiving an offer or receiving a thanks-but-no thanks letter. Asking permission is not only respectful but indicates that you do not want to miss a single thing that is being said.

I got a job once simply by asking that question. I knew my interviewer had made a decision to hire me in that moment by the look on his face. I got the sense that people rarely, if ever, asked that question even though he had asked for my permission to take notes while I was speaking. It’s a simple but effective question so ask permission and then take notes.

5. Ask what qualities the most successful employee has and what qualities the least successful employee is lacking.

Pay attention. If the answer to the first part of that question is perseverance or drive ask how that is displayed. If the lacking quality is commitment ask what commitment looks like for them. Your objective is to match expectations with reality prior to accepting a position.

These are just five overlooked questions candidates fail to ask. If you ask these along with the more common questions about promotions and educational opportunities you will make a good lasting impression and you might edge out other candidates for the job.

By: Allie Q Casey

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