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Questions You Should & Shouldn’t Ask Your Interviewer

by CK Group

Phew! You"ve sailed through your science job interview without a hitch and then they turn the tables on you by asking, “Do you have any questions?”

Now, it is important to think carefully before the interview about what you might want to ask at this point. Asking intelligent, relevant questions will show the interviewer that you are really interested in the science job and have put considerable effort into preparing for it.

The questions you ask and how you ask them can really differentiate you from your competition. Not only this, by asking questions and interacting with the employer you will strengthen the rapport already established in the interview, which can only remove space serve to increase your chances of landing that science job you"ve set your heart on.

Here are some great questions that you should ask at your scientific job interview:

Questions to demonstrate your interest in this science job:

  • How will my success be measured?
  • How is the role perceived within the company?
  • What are the most challenging aspects of the role?
  • Is there any opportunity for progression within the role?
  • Who will I be reporting to?
  • How long is the probationary period for this position?
  • How quickly are you looking for someone to take on this science role?
  • What is the background of the previous incumbent of the role?
  • What is a typical day like for someone in this position?
  • When would you like the successful candidate to start?
  • How am I doing so far compared to the other candidates you have seen so far?

Questions to demonstrate your interest in the scientific company:

  1. What is the work environment/culture like?
  2. Who are the company"s competitors?
  3. How is the company structured?
  4. What training and development is given to employees?
  5. How does the company promote personal growth?
  6. What are the current challenges facing the company?
  7. What management style does the company promote?
  8. What do you like about working here?
  9. How many people work in the office/department?

Questions NOT to ask at your scientific job interview:

  1. What does the company do? (You must do your research before the interview)
  2. Should I be offered the job, when can I take a holiday?
  3. How much overtime would I have to work?
  4. Would I have to work weekends?
  5. Are you going to do a background check?
  6. When will I be eligible for a pay rise?
  7. I entitled to sick pay?
  8. What are my sick pay entitlements?
  9. Am I able to work from home in this role?
  10. Would I be able to work part time?
  11. Are the working hours flexible?
  12. How much overtime would I have to work?

Find out more from CK Group

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