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Five Deadly Questions
CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND ADVISEMENT CENTER

 
 
 

Preparing for the Interview
Arriving for the Interview
The Interview
Interview Tips
Qualities Employers Look for in a Candidate
Five Deadly Questions

Questions You May Be Asked
Good Questions to Ask
How to Handle Illegal Questions
Salary Negotiations
Interview Attire (Men)
Interview Attire (Women)

The following questions will kill your chances of getting the job:

What is my salary?
Do not ask about salary until the interviewer has raised the subject first. This may not happen until the second interview or even later when an offer is extended. As curious as you may be, you must be patient or risk leaving the impression that you are more interested in money than being a team player.

How much vacation and sick leave will I get?
Asking about these issues makes you seem as if you are asking for time off before you have even started the job. Some interviewers may perceive this as a sign of lack of dedication, however unfairly. Naturally, you want to got this information. However, the best way to do it is by asking for a copy of the personnel manual, by talking to the personnel administrator, or by speaking with other employees before taking the job. You should be briefed on benefits at the appropriate time. If not, just ask, "What about the benefits?" after the salary issue has been raised.

How big is my office?
A dedicated team player produces good work regardless of the office environment. Questions regarding office size may be seen as a concern about job appearance rather than the essential elements of the job. Usually, during a tour of the operation, you will be shown the area where you will work.

When will I be promoted?
This question is impossible to answer. Promotion depends on timing and your performance. Opportunities for promotion depend on change, such as growth and turnover. Your suitability for promotion depends on your prior performance together with your abilities to plan, organize and get others to perform. Questions regarding promotion should be concerned with the opportunities for advancement, rather than on a commitment that cannot be given.

Any negative questions!
Any question that is negative or solicits a negative response places the interviewer in an unfavorable and sometimes awkward position. In addition, it makes you look like a negative person. All questions should be asked in a positive manner.

 

 

The Career Development and Gloria S. Williams Advisement Center is located in:
Student Center 301, 300 Pompton Road Wayne, NJ 07470
Phone 973.720.2281/2282 Fax 973.720.2074