Do Not Ask These Rude Questions in Your Next Interview

After the hiring manager has asked you plenty of tough interview questions, he’s likely to give you an opportunity to ask your own questions. Not inquiring about anything shows a lack of interest in the position, but asking the wrong thing may also damage your chances of being hired. Avoid asking these seven rude and inappropriate interview questions to ensure a successful exchange.

1. "How Many Other Candidates Are You Interviewing?"

While you may be curious about the competition, the hiring manager may not be able to divulge this information. Additionally, this interview question takes the interviewer’s focus off of you and places it on the other candidates. Let your confidence shine in the interview, and forget about the numbers.

2. "Can You Tell Me About the Company?"

Don’t expect the hiring manager to tell you everything you need to know about the organization. Asking this question shows that you’re unprepared and uninterested in the position. Take the time to do your research yourself before the interview; peruse the company’s website, read some recent news articles, check out current stock prices and skim press releases.

3. "Have You Had a Chance to Read My Resume?"

Just because you’ve already explained something on your resume or in your cover letter doesn’t mean you can’t repeat the point during the face-to-face interview. Expand on your resume by providing specific examples of your skills and achievements.

4. "How Much Does the Position Pay?"

This is an interview question that is best left for the end of the interview process. Avoid discussing compensation until you have a job offer or at least a second interview. Use this time to demonstrate what you can do for the organization.

5. "Does Your Company Offer Maternity Leave?"

Similar to the compensation discussion, don’t ask questions about benefits or leave programs during the initial interview. Especially avoid questions about maternity or paternity leave, as discussions about family situations have no place in an interview.

6. "How Quickly Are Employees Typically Promoted?"

Focus on landing this job before you ask questions about how to take the boss’s job. Center your questions around how to improve the current position rather than inquiring about promotions.

7. "Does Your Organization Monitor Internet Usage?"

Asking questions about computer and internet usage raises red flags for the hiring manager and immediately implies that you’re planning to break the rules. Asking this question ensures that the supervisor is suspicious of you well before you’re even hired.

Aside from practicing common interview questions, prepare for your next job interview by coming up with a few insightful questions to ask the hiring manager. Avoid asking any interview questions that may make you come across as rude or self-serving.

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