It’s the typical wind-down for most interviews, including an interview for a writing job. “Do you have any questions for me?” It’s often a wasted opportunity for most job candidates. It may turn into that moment you lose the job. While you’re scratching your head wondering what went wrong, it could be you’ve asked one of the worst questions to ask in an interview.
Here’s a list of questions career coaches say are the worst to ask. They apply equally to writers seeking writing opportunities.
How many other candidates are interviewing for this position?
If the potential employer doesn’t offer the information, don’t ask. You don’t want anyone to question your confidence. Instead, ask:
You listed the qualifications of an ideal candidate in the job description. What does X qualification look like for your company (or this writing job)?
Choose a soft rather than hard skill. This gives you an opportunity to assess whether you really fit into their company culture, while giving you the opportunity to respond to any points the interviewer shares with you.
How much will I earn?
If it wasn’t listed in the job posting, the employer plans to negotiate this. You don’t want to risk looking greedy. If you’re asked how much you want to earn, be prepared with a carefully researched answer. If the interviewer doesn’t bring up the subject, wait.
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All four questions are serious faux pas. Each one gives a negative impression.
Please take this one thing away with you. Prepare! Research. Plan for success. Then you are less likely to blow your chances at landing a writing job for which you genuinely qualify.
