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The graduate employment process: Planning positive questions to ask at interview

Roy Edwards

asking questions at interview


In the blog this week, we will explore examples of positive questions to ask at interview while avoiding those that present a negative impression.



Eliminating unsuitable candidates during interviews


One of the main tasks for the employer during interviews is to eliminate neurotic and potentially unreliable candidates. This includes people who regularly report largely imagined sickness, are over-tired because of playing at night on social media, tend towards being moody or antisocial, are regularly late, and those that leave completing assigned work to the last minute without checking.



Avoiding questions that present a negative impression


There are some questions that you should not ask during company interviews, as they will generally present a poor impression and set ‘alarm bells’ ringing in the mind of employers. Moreover, it is essential not to ask questions about information that should have researched about the job and company prior to attending the interview.



Questions that raise doubts about reliability


  • When can I take time off for holidays?

  • What is the company health insurance policy?

  • What is the company sickness and attendance policy?

  • Is it possible to work from home or on flexi time?

  • Can I take time off to continue my education?

  • How long are breaks during each day?

  • Do you check references? – Why is there a problem?



Questions that indicate laziness and lack of preparation


  • How many hours will I be expected to work each week?

  • Will I be required to work weekends?

  • What exactly will I be doing every day? – You should have read the job description.

  • What is the salary for this position? – The employer will ask about salary expectation. You need to research the possible range.



In contrast, asking positive questions at interview can significantly impress employers. These questions should highlight interest in the job, stress positive career development motivation, and remind the interviewers of important soft skills.



Positive questions to ask at interview


  • What are the expectations for success in this role?

  • Will I have a mentor during the early employment period?

  • How would you describe the culture of the organisation?

  • What does collaboration look like in this role? – Signalling a team player

  • What is the anticipated career progression?

  • How many recent graduates have progressed in the company?

  • What are the challenges for someone in this position?

  • What do you like about working here?



 

Question 1

Which job application documents is essential to review prior to an interview?


Question 2

What can the candidate do to present a final positive image at the conclusion of interviews?


Question 3

Why is positive body language signalling so important throughout the interview process?


 


We shall explore Question 3 in the blog next week.

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