- What are the benefits? (translation..."I get hung up on minute details"). Do you really think the Hiring Manager knows the benefits off the top of their head? Trust me, they don't. So, don't torture them since it would take them easily ten minutes to answer you. Instead, ask them who you could speak with. This is important stuff. But, let’s face it, the benefits aren't why you're interested in the job. So, only get this at the end of the interview process. Asking any earlier is presumptuous and ill-timed. Rephrase: "Since we are getting to the final stage, I want to make sure I have everything I need to respond quickly to an offer if I'm fortunate enough to get one. Who can I contact to find out about your benefits?"
- Do you have high turn over? (translation..."I like to focus on the negative"). Hmmm...while you're at, why don't you ask if they have bad breath too or of they have ever been divorced. Don't ask negative questions. It's flat out rude and puts the Hiring Manager on the defense. Attrition is absolutely something that you'll want to know about. But find a way to get at this by asking a question about retention that isn't so abrasive. If they can't answer you with a lot of examples and details, you'll have your answer. Rephrase: "Tell me about the work culture. How long have people been here and what do they like most about this company?"
- What are the hours? (translation..."I don't like to work long hours") Knowing the hours IS important, but make sure you don't give them the impression that you are a "Nine to Fiver" who is only willing to work the minimum. You can certainly ask. But tell them it's because you want to understand what the expectations will be (so that you can meet those expectations!) in addition to wanting to fit in culturally with what the rest of the team is doing. Rephrase: "What's the typical schedule for this position and what time do you like people to show up and work up until so I can fit in with everyone else?"
- What does your company do? (translation...I was just too lazy to research this ahead of time"). This is the ultimate foot in mouth question. Why should a Hiring Manager have to spend time informing you of something you should already know? It is a time drain and an annoyance. It's also a little insulting because you are basically telling the manager that you've never heard of the place they work. Now, it's perfectly fine to ask questions about the company, just make sure they're specific questions, not broad ones. And always reference whatever legwork you did do to research them. Rephrase: "I searched your company online and got some good general information, but could you give me a bit more detail?"
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Some of the most reasonable things to ask can kill your chances in an interview. Understand how these questions can come across and learn how to rephrase them to avoid this pitfall.