You’ll find plenty of advice out there on what you should be asking an employer, but what about the questions you shouldn’t ask at interview?

Most interviewers will offer you the opportunity to ask questions on various elements of the company or the role itself, but just because this usually happens at the end of an interview don’t assume that the process is over and that you won’t be judged on the questions you ask.

So when you know that your time with the employer is drawing to a close, just bear in mind these questions you shouldn’t ask at interview and avoid them at all costs.

Have I got the job?
Your most probably not the only candidate for the role and the employer will have more people that he wishes to see, so expecting them to make a split-second decision on whether you’ve been successful puts them in a very awkward situation.

If you put them on the spot like that, it could also come across as overly confident and cocky – all attributes that ring alarm bells for prospective new employers so its definitely one of the questions you shouldn’t ask at interview.

What salary are you offering?
If salary hasn’t been mentioned in the job advert or the employer hasn’t bought it up during the interview themselves, then don’t ask what salary package is on offer.

Many roles are subject to skill level and experience which will be re-assessed after your interview and only mentioned to you either during a second meeting or at the job offer stage.

Although employers appreciate that fair pay is important, candidates asking about it in the early stages of the recruitment process can give the impression that your solely motivated by financial gain.

Do I have to work overtime?
Some employers will on occasion ask staff to work a few hours extra if the business requires it and the pay arrangements for this extra work varies from business to business.

Many interviewers are experts at reading body language and call easily tell if their response is something you don’t want to hear, so if you only want to work set hours then wait until the subject arises naturally or you’re actually offered the role.

If you are interested if overtime is available, rephrase the question and ask if there is the opportunity to work additional hours when the company requires it.

For more advice on questions you shouldn’t ask at interview, speak to the team at Appointments on 01782 338787.