Introduction:
Transitioning from a military to a civilian career involves mastering the nuances of the commercial job interview process. While asking questions during an interview shows your interest and engagement, it’s crucial to know which questions might be inappropriate or potentially detrimental to your chances of securing the position. This blog outlines common interview questions that ex-military jobseekers should avoid and explains why steering clear of these can make a more favorable impression.
1. Premature Compensation Questions:
It’s natural to be curious about salary, benefits, and vacation time, but bringing these up too early in the interview process can give the impression that you are more interested in what the company can do for you than in contributing to the team. Wait until the interviewer brings up this topic, or if it's a final interview stage, frame your question respectfully by focusing on understanding the total compensation package.
2. Personal Questions About the Interviewer:
Asking personal questions about the interviewer’s background, family, or private life is inappropriate. These questions breach professional boundaries and can make the interviewer uncomfortable. Keep the conversation focused on the role, the company, and industry-related topics.
3. Negative Queries About the Company:
Avoid asking pointed questions about the company’s past problems, controversies, or public failures. Such questions can come off as confrontational. A more tactful approach is to ask about the challenges the company is currently facing and how they are overcoming them, showing your interest in contributing positively.
4. Overly Basic Questions:
Asking questions that can be answered with a quick look at the company’s website may suggest that you haven’t done your homework. Instead, delve deeper with questions that show you’ve engaged with the material you’ve researched, such as asking about recent changes mentioned in a press release or the company’s future plans.
5. Questions About Immediate Advancements:
While ambition is a great trait, asking about immediate promotions or transfers can imply that you’re not interested in the role for which you’re applying. Focus instead on asking about professional development opportunities and career paths within the organization.
How to Ask the Right Questions:
nstead of focusing on what to avoid, consider asking questions that demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and company. Inquire about the company culture, team dynamics, the typical challenges of the role, and opportunities for growth and contribution. These questions not only show your enthusiasm for the position but also help you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
Summary:
The questions you choose to ask in an interview can significantly influence the outcome. By avoiding questions that could be perceived as self-serving or inappropriate, and instead focusing on the company and role, you present yourself as a thoughtful and considerate candidate. Remember, the goal of your questions should be to reinforce your interest in the role and to gather useful information about how you can succeed and contribute to the company.