Page 98 - John Kador - 201 Best Questions to Ask on Your Interview-McGraw-Hill (2002)

QUESTIONS FOR HUMAN RESOURCES

? Memorably Bad Question

#6
If I don’t take a lunch break, can I accumulate the time that I
am forgoing and add it to my vacation time?

This candidate is already out to lunch. This question displays a
fatal lack of judgment because the answer is so predictable.
There is not a company in the world that would agree to such a
business. As a general rule, any question with the word
“lunch” in it is inappropriate.
Richard Kathnelson
VP of Human Resources
Syndesis, Inc.
Ontario, Canada

7-5
What do you consider to be the organization’s strengths and weaknesses?
Again, it’s the interviewer’s opinion that is at the heart of the question.

7-6
Can you tell me more about my day-to-day responsibilities?
Listen for items that are emphasized or repeated. These are the hot but-
tons, and you will want to tailor the discussion of your skills relating to
these areas.
7-7
How soon are you looking to fill this position?
Get a sense of the company’s time frame.
7-8
How do my skills compare with those of the other candidates you have
interviewed?
It’s worth a shot to ask, although you probably won’t get a straight an-
swer. Be prepared for the counter, “Why do you ask?”
7-9
I have really enjoyed meeting with you and your team, and I am very
interested in the opportunity. I feel my skills and experience would be

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