Job Interview Tips: What to Ask and What to Avoid
- Dan Space, a former HR expert at Spotify, argues against the effectiveness of generic interview questions.
- He believes these questions do not provide valuable insights into a candidate's abilities or character.
- Space advocates for more tailored and specific questions that align with the role requirements to improve the interview process.
As job seekers prepare for interviews, experts emphasize the importance of punctuality, appropriate attire, and thoughtful questions. However, one question that may be best avoided is, "What does success look like in 30, 60, 90 days?" According to interview coach Space, this inquiry often yields vague, canned responses that lack the depth necessary for understanding how to achieve success in the role. Space argues that such future-oriented questions do not provide valuable insights and can be seen as a waste of time. Instead, he suggests that candidates should focus on asking specific questions that demonstrate their expertise and understanding of the field. This approach not only helps candidates stand out but also leaves a lasting impression on interviewers. Contrastingly, LinkedIn career expert Andrew McCaskill believes that inquiring about success metrics can showcase a candidate's proactive attitude and desire to excel. He suggests that candidates might better illustrate their initiative by asking about specific systems or processes used by the employer, thereby demonstrating their preparedness for the role. For those looking to enhance their interview skills, CNBC offers an online course titled "How to Ace Your Job Interview," which covers essential topics such as what hiring managers seek, effective body language, and strategies for discussing compensation. This resource aims to equip candidates with the tools needed to navigate the interview process successfully.